Meat Balls In Tomato Gravy
Juicy meatballs simmer in a rich tomato gravy, perfect for comforting family dinners, offering savory flavors and a hearty texture suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground meat, egg, torn bread, chopped onion, chopped celery and bell pepper, salt, pepper, and garlic powder together.
- Form the mixture into large lemon-sized meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in hot oil until golden brown.
- Place the browned meatballs in a baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil.
- Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of flour to the oil to make a paste.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard and the half can of tomato soup.
- Add water gradually to create a gravy consistency.
- Pour the gravy over the meatballs in the baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a leaner meatball, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you don't have bread on hand, oatmeal can be a great substitute. You can also add grated cheese to the meat mixture for extra flavor. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference; fresh herbs like parsley or basil work well too. For a variation, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of spaghetti or with mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They also pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a unique twist, try serving them as sliders on mini buns. This dish complements well with garlic bread or a light white wine, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave them for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Balls In Tomato Gravy contains roughly 446 calories, with 12g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2226mg per serving (97% 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 make the meatballs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time. Form them and place them in a baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to freeze them, place uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for the tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce as a substitute. Just add a bit of sugar to balance the acidity, or mix in some beef broth for a richer flavor. You might also consider using homemade marinara sauce if you have it on hand for a fresh taste.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F. Alternatively, cut one meatball in half to check for any pinkness in the center. If cooked properly, they should be firm to the touch and no longer shiny.
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).