Meatballs In Tomato Sauce
Savory meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, served over spaghetti for a hearty, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak cracker crumbs in milk.
- Add hamburger meat, beaten egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Form into 2-inch meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in a frying pan, then place them in a baking dish.
- Mix tomato soup, water, and Worcestershire sauce; heat through.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Serve over spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like parsley and oregano to the meat mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, crushed breadcrumbs or rolled oats can work as substitutes. Ensure the meatballs are evenly browned for better flavor. When forming them, wet your hands to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over spaghetti for a classic pairing, and top with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness. A side of Spinach Salad And Warm Dressing complements the dish well, providing a fresh contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs In Tomato Sauce contains roughly 673 calories, with 16g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1250mg per serving (54% 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 use ground turkey instead of hamburger meat?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. Just be aware that it may yield a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious. Make sure to season well to enhance the taste.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use a can of diced tomatoes blended until smooth, or substitute with marinara sauce. Both options will provide a rich tomato flavor that complements the meatballs beautifully.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
To ensure the meatballs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. Alternatively, you can cut one in half to check that it's no longer pink inside, and the juices 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).