Onion Meatballs
Hearty onion meatballs baked with vegetables and cheese, combining savory flavors and tender textures, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, and egg together in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Spread thinly chopped onion evenly in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Place the meatballs on top of the chopped onion.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until browned.
- Add frozen vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato sauce over the meatballs.
- Cover the dish and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Uncover, top with grated cheese, and brown until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or Italian herbs with the meatball mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef. Using day-old bread for the breadcrumbs can enhance the texture. Also, sautéing the onion before adding it to the casserole can deepen its sweetness, making it a perfect complement to the meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
These onion meatballs pair beautifully with a side of pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can add a nice contrast. For a comforting meal, serve with garlic bread or alongside Beef Scramble for a hearty dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Onion Meatballs contains roughly 866 calories, with 29g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 819mg per serving (36% 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 use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables in this recipe. Just be sure to chop them into small, even pieces to ensure they cook through in the same time as the meatballs. It's a great way to incorporate seasonal produce into your meal.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
What can I do if my meatballs are dry?
If your meatballs turn out dry, you can add a little more milk to the mixture next time or incorporate finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots for moisture. Serving them with a rich tomato sauce can also help keep them juicy.
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).