German Meat Balls
German Meat Balls feature juicy beef balls simmered in a tangy sauerkraut and raisin sauce, offering a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread, half of the grated onions, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Mold the mixture into small meat balls.
- In a Dutch oven, combine the remaining grated onions, brown sugar, raisins, drained sauerkraut, gingersnaps, and tomato sauce.
- Add the meat balls to the sauce mixture.
- Simmer uncovered for 1 1/2 hours, until the meat is cooked through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding a tablespoon of mustard to the meatball mixture. If you don't have gingersnaps, crushed graham crackers can be a good substitute. Ensure the ground beef is at room temperature for easier mixing and rolling. These German Meat Balls can be paired with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the German Meat Balls over egg noodles or with a side of hearty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can add a nice contrast to the rich flavors. For a comforting experience, try pairing them with mashed potatoes, perfect for complementing this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Meat Balls contains roughly 735 calories, with 13g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2581mg 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 make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Simply refrigerate them separately, then combine and reheat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I substitute for sauerkraut?
If you're not a fan of sauerkraut, you can use shredded cabbage sautéed with vinegar to replicate the tangy flavor, or even a mixture of coleslaw mix with a bit of apple cider vinegar for a similar effect.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs or the fully cooked ones. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove.
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).