Maria'S Meat Balls
Juicy meatballs with a crunchy cornflake coating, infused with herbs and garlic, perfect for a comforting meal served with sauce and pasta or bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground round beef, soaked white bread, cornflakes, parsley, oregano, garlic, egg, and cut onions in a bowl until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Drop the meatballs into sauce raw.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or finely chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you're out of cornflakes, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can serve as a suitable substitute. To prevent the meatballs from being too dense, be careful not to overmix the ingredients. These meatballs can also be used in dishes like Beef And Biscuits for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal, or place them in a sub roll with melted cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich. A side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad complements the dish nicely. They also pair beautifully with American recipes like Hamburger And Rice Casserole for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, gently simmer in sauce on the stove or microwave until heated through, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maria'S Meat Balls contains roughly 645 calories, with 21g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (264% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 74g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use other types of meat for these meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the beef. Each will give a different flavor and texture, but the seasonings will still work well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed, as leaner meats may cook faster.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your meatballs are fully cooked is to check their internal temperature with a meat thermometer. They should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef. Alternatively, you can cut one open to check if the center is no longer pink and the juices run clear.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them ahead of time. Store the raw meatballs in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage. When ready to cook, simply drop them into your sauce straight from the fridge or freezer.
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).