Minced Meatballs
Juicy, flavorful minced meatballs are perfect for gatherings or family dinners, paired with a sweet and tangy pie filling sauce for a comforting, savory dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, bread crumbs, ham, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add ground beef and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into 6 dozen tiny meatballs and place in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake at 375°F for 12 to 14 minutes or until done.
- Cool the meatballs.
- Remove from the pan.
- Cover and chill.
- When ready to serve, combine pie filling, apple juice or cider, and vinegar in a saucepan and heat until bubbly.
- Add the chilled meatballs to the sauce and keep warm, adding additional juice if it becomes too thick.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the meatball mixture. For a gluten-free option, substitute bread crumbs with ground oats or crushed gluten-free crackers. If you want a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. These meatballs can also be made with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these savory meatballs as an appetizer or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. They pair wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. For a comforting evening, consider serving with a bowl of Rich Brown Beef Stew or alongside classic American recipes for a hearty feast.
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 low heat, adding a splash of the sauce to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them for quick reheating, ensuring they are heated through before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Minced Meatballs contains roughly 1078 calories, with 44g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (88% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1435mg per serving (62% 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 for later use?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming.
What can I use instead of deviled ham?
If you don't have deviled ham on hand, you can substitute it with finely chopped cooked ham mixed with a bit of mustard and spices for flavor. Alternatively, canned chicken or turkey spread can work as a substitute, providing a similar texture, though the taste will vary slightly.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure that the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. Alternatively, you can cut one meatball in half; it should be browned and 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).