Scrumptious Meatballs

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Juicy meatballs simmered in rich brown gravy, seasoned perfectly with garlic and onion salts, ideal for family dinners or hearty appetizers.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. ground beef
  • 1 c. Minute rice
  • 1/2 to 1 tsp. garlic salt
  • 1/2 to 1 tsp. onion salt
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • several shakes Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 to 4 c. brown gravy

Instructions

  1. Mix ground beef, Minute rice, garlic salt, onion salt, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce together well.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
  3. Place the meatballs in a large skillet with a lid.
  4. Cook over a very low flame until the meatballs are done.
  5. Drain off excess grease.
  6. Pour 3 to 4 cups of brown gravy over the meatballs.
  7. Simmer for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or finely chopped herbs like parsley or oregano to the meatball mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Adjust the Worcestershire sauce and garlic salt to taste, as these can vary in intensity. For a spicier kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these scrumptious meatballs over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal. They pair beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. For a fun twist, try using the meatballs in a sandwich for an easy lunch, similar to the way you might serve them with a Hearty Beef 'N Potato Casserole.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of gravy, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish for about 1-2 minutes, adding a bit of water to keep them moist.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Scrumptious Meatballs contains roughly 134 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

134 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.3g 7% DV
Total Fat 3.9g 5% DV
Carbs 21.6g 8% DV
Fiber 1g 4% DV
Sugar 2.9g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 130.7mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 4.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Calcium 38.3mg 3% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 brown rice instead of Minute rice?

Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time. Be sure to pre-cook the brown rice according to package instructions before mixing it with the ground beef. This will help ensure the meatballs hold their shape and cook evenly.

How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

To make gluten-free meatballs, simply replace the Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free alternative and ensure that any additional seasonings, such as garlic salt and onion salt, are also gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs instead of rice if you prefer a different texture.

What can I serve with the meatballs?

These meatballs are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with cream-style corn, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. They also work well in a sub sandwich, making them a fantastic choice for Manwich Night Meat Loaf enthusiasts.

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).

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