Meatballs With Light Herb Sauce(Serves 4 To 6; Under 200 Calories)
Tender meatballs served with a light herb sauce featuring mushrooms and pearl onions, perfect for a comforting yet health-conscious meal for family or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Broil meatballs 6 inches from the heat source for 5 to 6 minutes or until browned.
- Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meatball mixture. If you don't have corn oil, olive oil works well as a substitute. For a lighter sauce, use low-sodium beef broth. For a vegetarian option, substitute meatballs with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead. These meatballs can also be served in a sub for a tasty twist.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs make a great main dish served over hot, cooked noodles or rice, which soak up the light herb sauce beautifully. For a complete meal, pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. They also work well as an appetizer at gatherings, especially when served with toothpicks and a dipping sauce. For more ideas, browse more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs With Light Herb Sauce(Serves 4 To 6; Under 200 Calories) contains roughly 1185 calories, with 13g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 119g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (34% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1251mg 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 freeze the meatballs and sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm them on the stove or in the microwave. This makes for a quick meal option on busy days.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
If you don't have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute, providing a slightly different flavor profile. For an even lighter option, consider using a homemade broth or stock to maintain the dish's low-calorie nature.
How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?
To amp up the flavor of the meatballs, add grated Parmesan cheese, minced onions, or fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the mixture. You can also experiment by mixing in spices such as paprika or cumin for a unique twist that complements the light herb sauce.
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).