Meatball And Macaroni Supper
A hearty, comforting dish featuring flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce served over macaroni, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, egg, salt, bread crumbs, pepper, and oregano.
- Mix well and form into small meatballs.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
- In a separate pot, combine tomato paste, water, brown sugar, and salt to make the sauce.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer together for another 10 minutes.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
- Serve meatballs and sauce over cooked macaroni.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the meatball mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as a substitute. To keep the meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. For a twist, try serving with a sprinkle of Parmesan or a side salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with Quick And Easy Tater Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs and sauce over a generous helping of macaroni, and garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color. This dish is great on its own but also pairs well with garlic bread or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside Meatballs With Grape Sauce for a delightful variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatball And Macaroni Supper contains roughly 1356 calories, with 16g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 129g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 8g 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 turkey or chicken instead of beef for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that poultry may require a slightly shorter cooking time and might need additional seasoning to enhance the flavor. Adjust the salt and spices as desired.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce, cooking until it thickens.
Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
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).