Meat Balls For Spaghetti
Juicy, flavorful meatballs infused with Parmesan, herbs, and garlic, simmered in rich spaghetti sauce. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground round ⓘ
- 1 1/2 slices Italian bread, cubed ⓘ
- 2 1/2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 2 1/2 tsp. parsley flakes ⓘ
- 1 tsp. garlic powder ⓘ
- 2 1/2 Tbsp. milk ⓘ
- 1 small to medium egg ⓘ
- 8 single soda crackers, rolled fine
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1 small onion, minced ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
Instructions
- Put all ingredients together in a large bowl and mix well.
- Gather enough meat mixture in hands to form golf-sized meatballs.
- Place meatballs in your own spaghetti sauce, using 1 quart of sauce.
- Simmer for at least 2 hours.
- If using a crock-pot, cook on low heat for 8 or 9 hours.
- Cook 1/2 pound dry spaghetti.
- Serve the meatballs with spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful punch, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or substituting the ground round with ground turkey for a lighter option. If you don't have Italian bread, stale white bread works well too. For an extra kick, try using fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder. Remember to mix gently to avoid tough meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over a bed of cooked spaghetti, and top with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. These meatballs also work great in a sub roll, making a delicious Italian Stallion Sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of sauce to maintain moisture. You can also freeze meatballs for up to 3 months; defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Balls For Spaghetti contains roughly 349 calories, with 27g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value) and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. At about 349 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 ground turkey instead of ground round?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground round if you're looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey may need a little extra seasoning to achieve the same flavor profile.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, substitute the Italian bread with gluten-free bread or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld. Just form them into balls and cook them the next day.
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).