Judy'S Applesauce Meatballs
Judy's Applesauce Meatballs offer a tender, flavorful twist with applesauce and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, applesauce, and bread crumbs in a bowl.
- Add eggs and season with salt and pepper, then combine thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- Roll each meatball in flour.
- Brown the meatballs in hot shortening until evenly cooked and browned.
- Place the browned meatballs in a casserole dish.
- Pour tomato juice and tomato sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake or simmer until the meatballs are cooked through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try mixing in some minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or basil. If you're short on time, pre-made breadcrumbs can be a great shortcut. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, consider using apple cider instead of tomato juice for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. They also pair nicely with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, try serving them with mashed potatoes, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover and heat until warmed through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Judy'S Applesauce Meatballs contains roughly 826 calories, with 10g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (171% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1873mg per serving (81% 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 Judy's Applesauce Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs either before or after cooking. If freezing raw meatballs, shape them and place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cooked meatballs can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of applesauce?
If you don't have applesauce, you can substitute it with mashed bananas or pureed pears for a similar texture and sweetness. Alternatively, you could use a small amount of grated apple, but be mindful of the moisture content in your meatball mixture.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
To add a kick to your meatballs, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also mix in finely chopped jalapeños or use a spicy tomato sauce. Experiment to find the right level of heat for your taste!
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).