Meat And Veggie Balls
Savory meat and vegetable balls baked in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining hearty flavors with a comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, grated carrots, grated potato, chopped celery, fine chopped onion, chopped garlic, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls.
- Brown the meatballs slightly in butter in a skillet.
- Place the browned meatballs in a baking dish.
- Pour the can of tomato soup over the meatballs.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 35 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add some chopped spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients. If you're out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be good substitutes. Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat and veggie balls over a bed of cooked rice or pasta to soak up the tomato soup sauce. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. These meatballs also make a great filling for subs or sandwiches, perfect for a casual get-together.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat and veggie balls can be stored 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 broth, covering to steam and warm through. They can also be microwaved, but be careful not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat And Veggie Balls contains roughly 1576 calories, with 29g protein, 238g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (85% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2444mg per serving (106% 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 meat and veggie balls?
Yes, you can freeze the meat and veggie balls before or after cooking. To freeze, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use marinara sauce or a homemade tomato sauce as a substitute. For a creamier version, mix in some cream or ricotta cheese with the sauce before pouring it over the meatballs.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can also cut one in half to check that it is no longer pink inside. Baking them in the tomato soup helps ensure they stay moist while cooking.
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).