Reduced Fat Meatballs
Reduced fat meatballs are a wholesome, flavorful dish featuring lean beef and simple seasonings, perfect for a healthy meal with rice, noodles, or pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Form the mixture into meatballs the size of large walnuts.
- Saute in polyunsaturated margarine or bake in a 325°F oven until cooked through.
- Serve with rice, noodles, or pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to the meatball mixture. If you're looking to reduce carbs, substitute bread crumbs with ground flaxseed or almond flour. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Be sure not to overmix; this keeps the meatballs tender. For a different texture, try using oatmeal instead of bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
These reduced fat meatballs pair beautifully with Clara Jane's Rice for a comforting meal. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. They also work well in a sub sandwich with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, or tossed in pasta for a quick dinner. For a hearty option, try them with the Cornbread And Beef Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of broth or water, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Reduced Fat Meatballs contains roughly 466 calories, with 20g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 cooking them?
Yes, you can freeze the formed meatballs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to cook, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for egg whites?
If you prefer not to use egg whites, you can substitute with 1/2 cup of egg substitute or a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This helps bind the meatballs while keeping them lower in fat.
How can I make these meatballs spicy?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference to achieve the desired level of heat without overpowering the other flavors.
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).