Sausage Meat Balls
Savory sausage meatballs glazed with a sweet and tangy ketchup sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining, offering bold flavors and hearty comfort in each bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sausage, beaten eggs, bread crumbs, and sage; mix well.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet; then pour off excess fat.
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, white vinegar, and soy sauce to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the browned meatballs.
- Simmer for 30 minutes until cooked through and flavorful.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or minced garlic with the sausage mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey sausage can be substituted for the pork sausage. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version. Adjust the amount of sage based on your taste preference, or add herbs like thyme for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these flavorful meatballs over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. They also pair well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks and a dipping sauce. They would be a great addition to a game day spread alongside snacks like Pigs-N-A Blanket.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a skillet over low heat, or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Meat Balls contains roughly 705 calories, with 8g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and potassium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2089mg per serving (91% 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 make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance. Simply form them and place them in the fridge until you're ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if they're coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ketchup in the sauce?
If you're looking for a substitute for ketchup, you can use tomato sauce mixed with a bit of sugar and vinegar to mimic the sweetness and tang. Alternatively, barbecue sauce can work for a smoky flavor, giving your meatballs a different twist.
Can these meatballs be cooked in the oven?
Absolutely! To bake the meatballs, preheat the oven to 400°F and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Then, pour the sauce over them and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to warm the sauce.
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).