Meatballs With Sauce
Savory meatballs simmered in a tangy, sweet sauce with Worcestershire, ketchup, vinegar, and sugar, perfect for a hearty family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together hamburger, chopped onion, oatmeal, salt, and pepper.
- Shape into meatballs and brown them.
- Mix ketchup, water, sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce together to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs and simmer for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to the meatball mixture. If you’re out of oatmeal, breadcrumbs can be a great substitute. For a healthier option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. Ensure the meatballs are browned well for a rich flavor before adding the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over spaghetti for a classic pairing, or alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. They also go well with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a complete dinner, consider serving them with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist, cooking until heated through. You can also microwave them, covered, for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs With Sauce contains roughly 344 calories, with 6g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2417mg per serving (105% 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 make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. They can also be frozen before cooking; just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before browning and simmering in the sauce.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sugar can work as a substitute. Alternatively, you can use balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.
How can I spice up the sauce?
To add more depth to the sauce, consider incorporating a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or even a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the flavor.
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).