Easy Applesauce Meatballs
Juicy applesauce meatballs combine savory beef with sweet applesauce, crispy corn flakes, and a tangy catsup glaze, making a family-friendly dish perfect for casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, crumbled corn flakes, applesauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into fist-sized balls.
- In a separate bowl, mix catsup and water to create the glaze.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some minced garlic or chopped onions into the meatball mixture. If you don't have corn flakes, breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. Adjust the sweetness of the applesauce to your liking, using unsweetened if preferred. These meatballs can also be baked instead of fried for a healthier option, making them a great choice for a variety of American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious glaze. They pair nicely with steamed vegetables like green beans or a simple salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve them in slider buns for a casual gathering, making them a hit at any Sunday Supper Pie event.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water or catsup to keep them moist, and microwave in short intervals until heated through. They can also be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Applesauce Meatballs contains roughly 323 calories, with 8g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2375mg per serving (103% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for these meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I do if the mixture is too wet?
If your meatball mixture feels too wet, you can add more crumbled corn flakes or breadcrumbs to help absorb excess moisture. Start with a small amount and mix until you reach the desired consistency for shaping.
Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well! After forming them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, add extra cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).