Prickly Meat Balls
Juicy meatballs infused with herbs and rice, baked in a creamy tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, rice, chopped onion, minced parsley, pepper, and seasoned salt in a mixing bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs into a 1-quart casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream of tomato soup with water.
- Pour the soup mixture over the meatballs in the casserole.
- Cover the casserole and bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes until cooked through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. If you don’t have uncooked rice, you can substitute with cooked rice or quinoa. Additionally, using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef can make this dish lighter while still delicious. For a twist, try adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meatball mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are great served over a bed of spaghetti or with crusty bread for dipping. Pair them with a side salad for a complete meal or serve with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. They also make a tasty appetizer, perfect for game day or gatherings. For a comforting twist, serve alongside mashed potatoes or a warm grain salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover prickly meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Prickly Meat Balls contains roughly 388 calories, with 23g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (117% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value). At about 388 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork as a substitute for ground beef. Each option will give a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your preference or dietary needs.
What if I want to make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the cream of tomato soup is gluten-free or make your own using fresh tomatoes, and substitute the rice with quinoa or gluten-free breadcrumbs. This will keep the dish flavorful and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I freeze these meatballs for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs or the baked ones. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.
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).