Gwen'S Meat Balls
Savory homemade meatballs packed with flavor, ideal for casual dinners or entertaining guests. Features a flavorful blend of beef, vegetables, and a tangy tomato sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, chopped bell pepper, chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and catsup or tomato paste in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix thoroughly by hand until all ingredients are well combined.
- Pinch off small portions of the mixture and roll each into a ball.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for approximately 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and drain any excess fat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrition. If you prefer a bit more flavor, try adding minced garlic or Italian herbs. Make sure to mix the ingredients well, but avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender. Pair with a side of Groente (Oven) Soup for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs can be served on a bed of spaghetti or in a sub sandwich for a hearty meal. They also pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. For a fun twist, serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks and a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Explore more American recipes for sides that complement these meatballs perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a bit of catsup or tomato sauce to keep them moist, and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gwen'S Meat Balls contains roughly 351 calories, with 8g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (164% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 705mg per serving (31% 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 the meatballs after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen until heated through.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you don't have breadcrumbs, you can substitute crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice. Just make sure to adjust the quantity as needed to maintain the right consistency. Alternatively, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time, shape them into balls, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for a convenient option when planning meals ahead of time, just like with Carole'S Easy Lasagne(Microwave).
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).