Lamb Balls
Juicy lamb balls infused with cheddar and onions, topped with sweet sherry sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground lamb, diced onion, shredded Cheddar cheese, diced bread, egg, and salt together. Form into small balls and roll in cracker crumbs.
- Arrange the meatballs in a baking dish and pour milk mixed with brown sugar over them.
- Add sherry until the meatballs are almost covered.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, try adding chopped garlic or fresh herbs like mint or parsley to the lamb mixture. If you don't have sherry, white wine or chicken broth can be good substitutes. Ensure the meatballs are uniformly sized for even cooking. You can also use panko instead of cracker crumbs for a crunchier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lamb balls over a bed of rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. They pair well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For a delightful dessert, consider serving with Cherry Delight Dessert to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lamb balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of milk and cover with foil, heating at 350°F until warmed through. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lamb Balls contains roughly 843 calories, with 31g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2300mg per serving (100% 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 store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavors as they marinate. Just remember to add the milk and brown sugar mixture right before baking.
What can I serve with these lamb balls?
These lamb balls pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or fluffy couscous. For a heartier meal, creamy polenta or baked potatoes are excellent choices.
Can I freeze the cooked lamb balls?
Absolutely! After baking, let the lamb balls cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven.
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).