Meatballs Espanole
Juicy meatballs simmered in a savory tomato sauce, served over fluffy rice—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, chopped celery, Worcestershire sauce, egg, garlic salt, and pepper; mix thoroughly.
- Form the mixture into 12 meatballs.
- Place the meatballs in a greased shallow baking pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped garlic or fresh herbs into the meatball mixture. If you don't have soft bread crumbs, stale bread can be used; just soak it in water and then squeeze out the excess. Worcestershire sauce can be substituted with soy sauce for a different umami profile. Always check for doneness by cutting a meatball in half; it should be cooked through and no longer pink.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti for a classic pairing, or alongside garlic bread for a hearty meal. They also pair well with a fresh green salad. For a twist, try them in a sub sandwich topped with cheese. Explore more beef recipes to discover variations that suit your palate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. For a crispier texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs Espanole contains roughly 363 calories, with 7g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 9g 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 freeze the meatballs before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the formed but unbaked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for a leaner option. For a vegetarian alternative, try using lentils or plant-based meat substitutes, adjusting seasonings to maintain flavor.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, cut one meatball in half; it should be no longer pink in the center.
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).