Saucy Meatballs
Juicy meatballs simmered in a savory tomato and steak sauce, served over buttery noodles—perfect for a comforting family dinner with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated cheese, bread crumbs, milk, and lightly beaten egg; mix well and form into about 20 meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in a large pan with vegetable oil, then cook and drain excess fat.
- Sprinkle flour over the meatballs, stirring gently to coat.
- In the same pan, combine canned whole tomatoes, Heinz steak sauce, and salt; cook uncovered for 25 minutes or until the sauce reaches desired thickness.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked hot buttered noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the meat mixture. If you want a lighter option, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture. To enhance the sauce, add Italian herbs or a splash of red wine for depth. This recipe is reminiscent of American recipes like Sweet And Sour Balls.
Serving Suggestions
These saucy meatballs are delicious served over hot buttered noodles, but you can also pair them with rice or a side of crusty bread for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the dish well. For a variation, try serving with mashed potatoes, reminiscent of Barbecue Meat Loaf With Sauce, for a comforting twist.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs separately from the sauce for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Meatballs contains roughly 1105 calories, with 19g protein, 205g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (58% of the Daily Value), iron (54% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1596mg per serving (69% 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 a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, pork, or chicken for the ground beef. Each will impart a slightly different flavor and texture, so choose according to your preference. Just ensure the cooking time remains the same, as leaner meats may require less time to cook.
What can I use instead of Heinz steak sauce?
If you don't have Heinz steak sauce, you can substitute with barbecue sauce or a mixture of Worcestershire sauce and ketchup for a similar tangy flavor. Experiment with different sauces to find a combination that suits your taste.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs and cook them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).