Nettie'S Meatballs
Nettie's Meatballs features tender meatballs simmered in a tangy cranberry and tomato sauce, perfect for comfort dinners or festive gatherings with a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the frozen diced onions until tender.
- Shape the chopped meat into meatballs, seasoning to taste.
- Add the meatballs to the pot with the cooked onions.
- Add enough water to cover the meatballs.
- Stir in the whole cranberry sauce.
- Add the tomato sauce and simmer until the meatballs are cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian herbs like oregano or basil with the chopped meat. If you can't find frozen diced onions, fresh onions can be used instead; sauté them until translucent before adding to the meatballs. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the chopped meat for a leaner option. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less cranberry sauce based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nettie's Meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of Sweet Sour Cabbage Slaw(From The Files Of Ola Dortch Williams) complements the meatballs beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch. For a heartier meal, pair with crusty bread to mop up the sauce or serve with a simple green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Nettie’s Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nettie'S Meatballs contains roughly 483 calories, with 23g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! While the recipe traditionally uses chopped meat, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for leaner meats, to ensure they remain moist and flavorful.
What can I serve with Nettie’s Meatballs?
These meatballs pair nicely with a variety of sides. Consider serving them over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread. Additionally, a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad can balance the richness of the sauce.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. They should be firm to the touch 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).