Golden Nugget Meatballs
Golden Nugget Meatballs are savory, cheesy meatballs with a tangy tomato sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings. Crispy on the outside, cheesy inside.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups soft bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1/3 cup chopped green pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1 egg, beaten ⓘ
- 1/3 cup catsup
- 16 cubes sharp Cheddar cheese (3/4 inch each) ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons lard or drippings ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped green pepper, dry mustard, garlic salt, salt, pepper, beaten egg, and catsup in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 16 balls, approximately 3 to 4 tablespoons each.
- Place a cube of sharp Cheddar cheese in the center of each meatball and mold the meat around the cheese.
- Brown the meatballs in lard or drippings until evenly browned.
- Pour off any excess drippings.
- Add the tomato sauce to the skillet, cover tightly, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove the cover and continue simmering for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the sauce is slightly thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh bread for the soft bread crumbs, as stale bread can alter the texture. If you want a lighter option, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add finely chopped onions or herbs for extra flavor. To keep the meatballs juicy, avoid overcooking them and ensure the cheese doesn't leak out during frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Golden Nugget Meatballs over a bed of rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. For a unique twist, try serving them with a side of Baked Onion Soup to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist, covering to trap steam. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Golden Nugget Meatballs contains roughly 586 calories, with 17g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1296mg per serving (56% 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 freeze these meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well! After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of sharp Cheddar cheese?
If sharp Cheddar isn't available, you can use mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just ensure the cheese is cubed to maintain the 'nugget' effect inside the meatballs. Mixing different cheeses can also create a delicious flavor profile.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can also cut one open to check that it's no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. Simmering them in the tomato sauce helps ensure they are cooked through while adding flavor.
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).