Laura'S Meatballs
Juicy homemade meatballs made with lean beef and seasoned bread crumbs, perfect for serving with pasta or in a savory sauce for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well, adding enough water to moisten bread crumbs.
- Form into 1 1/2-inch round balls and bake at 400°F for 40 minutes, or pan brown.
- Loosen from pan and roll on paper towel to remove excess fat, then add to sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add some crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the mixture. To ensure the meatballs are juicy, be cautious with the amount of water added; just enough to moisten the bread crumbs is ideal. Consider using leftover meatballs in a hearty Beef recipes like Hearty Beef And Vegetable Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect served with spaghetti and marinara sauce or can be enjoyed in a sub sandwich with melted cheese. For a complete meal, pair them with a side salad or roasted vegetables. They also pair beautifully with Barley Bean Soup for a comforting dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of sauce to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Laura'S Meatballs contains roughly 348 calories, with 8g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% 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 for later use?
Yes, meatballs freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of Italian seasoned bread crumbs?
You can make your own by combining plain bread crumbs with Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Alternatively, crushed crackers or panko can also work, but you may need to adjust the seasoning to ensure the flavors are balanced.
How can I tell when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure they are fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F. You can also cut one in half; it should be no longer pink inside, and the juices should run clear. Baking is a great way to cook them evenly without excess oil.
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).