Picnic Wheel Meat Patties
Picnic Wheel Meat Patties are savory, portable treats combining ground beef and onions, seasoned with herbs and Parmesan. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they are perfect for picnics, parties, or quick snacks, offering rich flavors and a satisfying bite with every mouthful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil onions until tender; drain thoroughly.
- Force the cooked onions through a sieve to puree.
- Combine the onion puree with ground beef, minced parsley, bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into 48 small patties.
- Pan-fry the patties in shallow hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on absorbent paper.
- Ensure patties are thoroughly cold before packing for the picnic.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, try substituting ground turkey for ground beef. You can also add grated carrots or zucchini to the mixture for added moisture and nutrition. If you're short on time, using pre-chopped onions can save you some prep work. Additionally, feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or spices to customize the flavor, perhaps inspired by 'Mom'S' Meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions
These meat patties are perfect for picnics, served with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or pickles on the side. You can also stack them in a sandwich with your favorite condiments for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with America'S Favorite Pot Roast for a comforting dinner spread or can be enjoyed cold as a snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to warm them through, adding a little oil to maintain crispiness. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picnic Wheel Meat Patties contains roughly 1115 calories, with 7g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (127% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 6g 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 freeze the patties before cooking them?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped patties before frying. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just increase cooking time slightly until they are fully cooked through.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with pecorino for a similar flavor profile, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. You may also consider cheddar cheese, though it will impart a different taste and texture.
How can I make these patties spicier?
To add some heat, mix in red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños into the meat mixture. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference, and consider serving with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
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).