Meat Balls And Rice
Savory meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce served over fluffy rice create a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend ground chuck, Lipton onion soup, egg, and bread crumbs together.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet until nicely browned.
- Combine large can of tomato sauce with Lipton onion soup package to make the sauce.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the browned meatballs and simmer on low until the meat is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
- Prepare 2 cups of instant rice according to the box directions.
- Place cooked rice in a large dish, then pour the meatballs and sauce over the rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use day-old bread for the breadcrumbs, as it helps absorb moisture better. If you want a healthier option, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the ground chuck. Additionally, you can add herbs like parsley or oregano to enhance the flavor of the meatballs. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in some red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs and sauce over the rice for a hearty meal. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad pairs well to balance the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For dessert, consider serving a light option like a Pink And Pretty Parfait to complement the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Balls And Rice contains roughly 1219 calories, with 28g protein, 238g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1288mg per serving (56% 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 meatballs and sauce?
Yes, you can freeze meatballs and sauce together or separately. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a saucepan or microwave.
What can I use instead of Lipton dry onion soup?
If you don’t have Lipton dry onion soup, you can make a substitute by mixing onion powder, garlic powder, and a bit of beef bouillon granules. This will give you a similar flavor profile. Adjust the quantities to taste, as homemade mixes can vary in strength.
How do I ensure my meatballs are tender?
To keep your meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the meat mixture and make sure not to compact them too tightly when forming. Additionally, the moisture from the breadcrumbs and egg helps, so don’t skip those ingredients. Cooking them gently in the sauce also helps retain their juiciness.
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).