Special Meat Balls
Special Meat Balls are flavorful, hearty bites featuring a blend of ground beef and sausage, seasoned with herbs and spices. Coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, they are perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering a savory and slightly sweet profile that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, except fat, in a mixing bowl.
- Form the mixture into meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in hot fat, turning frequently to brown evenly.
- Reduce heat and cook slowly for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or substituting half the ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option. If you're short on time, pre-made meatballs can work in a pinch, but the homemade version has a distinct taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these special meatballs over pasta for a hearty meal or as a topping for sub rolls, creating a delicious meatball sandwich. Pair with a simple salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. They also make a great appetizer for parties, especially when served with a toothpick and a side of marinara sauce.
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 medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. Covering the skillet helps retain moisture and heat them through evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Special Meat Balls contains roughly 719 calories, with 45g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (138% of the Daily Value), protein (90% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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, these meatballs freeze well! After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What kind of fat should I use for browning?
You can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or even butter for browning the meatballs. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, but all will work well. Just ensure the fat is hot enough before adding the meatballs to achieve a nice sear.
Is there a way to make these meatballs gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free meatballs, simply replace any bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Check your Worcestershire sauce for gluten-free options as well to keep the dish entirely gluten-free.
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).