Lynn'S Meat Balls
Lynn's Meat Balls are flavorful, juicy meatballs made with a blend of meats, seasoned with herbs, and simmered in oil for a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ground meats with salt, pepper, oregano, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Add eggs, bread soaked in milk, and chopped onions to the meat mixture.
- Squish the mixture together and form large meatballs.
- Pour enough vegetable shortening and olive oil into a pan to cover the bottom, about 1/2 inch.
- Simmer the meatballs in the oil until they are cooked through and browned.
- Remove the meatballs and set aside in a large skillet.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a mixture of pork and beef for flavor and texture. If you don't have ground pork, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially the garlic powder and crushed red pepper flakes for added kick. Don't overmix the meat; gently squishing it helps keep the meatballs tender. A touch of grated Parmesan can also elevate the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect served over spaghetti with marinara sauce or as a hearty appetizer with toothpicks. Pair them with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. They also work well in a sub sandwich with melted cheese. For a festive twist, serve them alongside Easter Pizza for a delightful spread.
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 medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to maintain moisture, covering the pan to steam them lightly. Alternatively, you can microwave them but be cautious not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lynn'S Meat Balls contains roughly 2596 calories, with 17g protein, 203g carbohydrates, and 192g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1111mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing uncooked, shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Cooked meatballs can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of bread soaked in milk?
If you don't have bread, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with a little milk or chicken broth to help bind the meatballs. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be a good alternative for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring the meatballs remain moist.
How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?
The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can also cut one in half to check for doneness; it should be no longer pink in the center. Browning on the outside adds flavor, so aim for a nice golden crust while ensuring they are cooked through.
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).