Ruth'S Meatballs
Juicy, flavorful meatballs made with lean beef, onions, peppers, and crackers, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a savory baked taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the lean beef, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, crushed crackers, salt, pepper, and eggs together in a bowl.
- Use a tablespoon to scoop out the mixture, then roll each scoop into a meatball with your hands.
- Place the meatballs on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to the meatball mixture. If you don't have crackers, breadcrumbs or oatmeal can be used as substitutes. Make sure to chop the onion and green pepper finely for even cooking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic meal, or pair them with a salad for a lighter option. They also make great appetizers when served with toothpicks and your favorite dipping sauce. Consider pairing with garlic bread to complete the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overcook, as they may become dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruth'S Meatballs contains roughly 172 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1907mg per serving (83% 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 freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs. For uncooked meatballs, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Cooked meatballs can also be frozen and reheated as needed.
What can I use instead of eggs?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water). This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping the meatballs moist.
How can I make these meatballs healthier?
To make healthier meatballs, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of lean hamburger. You can also add grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to increase the nutritional value. Additionally, using whole wheat crackers or oats instead of regular crackers can boost fiber content.
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).