Mrs. Michigan Meat Balls
Mrs. Michigan Meat Balls are hearty, flavorful meatballs made with beef and applesauce, baked in a creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, crushed corn flakes, garlic powder, salt, chopped onion or onion flakes, beaten egg, and applesauce until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them in a baking dish.
- Pour undiluted cream of mushroom soup and drained mushroom pieces over the meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until cooked through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can substitute the crushed corn flakes with breadcrumbs or even oats for a different texture. If you're low on time, use pre-chopped onions or onion powder to save on prep. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of rice or egg noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a hearty option, they also go well with mashed potatoes, reminiscent of classic comfort food like Meat And Potato Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. They can also be microwaved if you're in a hurry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Michigan Meat Balls contains roughly 1499 calories, with 44g protein, 259g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (89% of the Daily Value), iron (82% of the Daily Value), and potassium (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2636mg per serving (115% 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 before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the formed meatballs before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce or use cream of chicken soup. Alternatively, a vegan or gluten-free cream soup can also work, depending on your dietary preferences.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and are no longer pink in the center. They should also be bubbly and the sauce thickened around them after baking.
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).