Fake Steak
A savory meatloaf-like dish with bacon wrapping, featuring a tangy tomato glaze, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground meat, egg, milk, bread crumbs, and salt in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into balls.
- Wrap each meatball with bacon and secure with toothpicks.
- Brown the bacon-wrapped meatballs on all sides in a skillet.
- Pour off the drippings from the skillet.
- In a separate pot, heat the tomato soup, brown sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce to make a glaze.
- Serve the bacon-wrapped meatballs with the tomato glaze.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used to save on cooking time. To ensure the meatballs are evenly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For added flavor, mix in some garlic powder or chopped herbs into the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bacon-wrapped meatballs as an appetizer or main dish. They pair well with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, serve them in a sub roll with melted cheese for a hearty sandwich. They also make a great addition to game day spreads or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover with a lid to steam and heat through, or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fake Steak contains roughly 1447 calories, with 61g protein, 256g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (122% of the Daily Value), iron (115% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2576mg per serving (112% 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 this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Just ensure that the meat is well-seasoned to maintain flavor. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the internal temperature to ensure it's fully cooked.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or a marinara sauce. Just adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of sugar to balance the acidity. This will still provide a delicious glaze for the meatballs.
How can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the meatballs and wrap them in bacon, then refrigerate until ready to cook. They can also be frozen before cooking. To cook from frozen, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).