Meatballs Ala Eric
Juicy meatballs with bold Italian flavors, combining beef, sausage, herbs, and tomatoes, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the lean hamburger, Italian sausage, eggs, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- In a separate dish, mix together the chunky salsa, tomato paste, stewed tomatoes, oregano, chopped garlic, chopped chili pepper, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper.
- Add the tomato mixture and bread crumbs to the meat mixture and mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and roll them in leftover bread crumbs.
- Cook the meatballs in a covered frypan, turning once, until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Add spaghetti sauce to the pan and simmer for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider soaking the bread crumbs in milk before mixing them in. If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to omit the chili pepper or use a sweeter variety. To enhance the dish, try adding grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture. For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger and sausage. These meatballs are great for making sandwiches, like in Muffuletta(In A Bun).
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of spaghetti for a classic meal or in a sub roll for a hearty sandwich. Pair with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete dinner experience. They also complement well with Italian recipes like Lorene'S Spaghetti Sauce, creating a flavorful feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a skillet with a bit of sauce over medium heat, covering the pan to retain moisture, or microwave for quick serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs Ala Eric contains roughly 268 calories, with 9g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (204% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. It also contributes 15g 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be a healthier alternative to beef and still yield delicious meatballs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as turkey may cook faster. For added flavor, consider including some extra spices or herbs.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile! They pair wonderfully with spaghetti, but you can also serve them in a sub roll with marinara sauce for a meatball sandwich. A side of sautéed vegetables or a crisp salad can balance the meal nicely.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure your meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, cut one in half; it should be no longer pink in the center and the juices should run clear.
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).