Spicy Meatballs
Spicy meatballs cooked in savory tomato sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings, with flavorful herbs and melted cheese topping for extra richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, milk, garlic salt, thyme, oregano, parsley flakes, and dry onion soup mix in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Mix water, dry onion soup mix, and tomato sauce, then pour this over the meatballs.
- Cover the pan and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
- Uncover the dish, sprinkle grated cheese over the meatballs, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve the spicy meatballs over rice or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture for extra heat. If you prefer a healthier version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use whole wheat bread crumbs instead of dry ones for a nutritious boost. Don't skip the resting time after baking; it helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
These spicy meatballs are perfect served over rice or mashed potatoes, which soak up the delicious sauce. Pair them with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. They also make great appetizers; serve them with toothpicks and a side of marinara sauce for dipping. For a heartier option, pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the spicy meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or reheat in a covered pan on the stove over low heat to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Meatballs contains roughly 897 calories, with 22g protein, 178g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (109% of the Daily Value), calcium (69% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 950mg per serving (41% 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?
Absolutely! While lean ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
How do I make the meatballs more tender?
To achieve tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the ingredients and consider adding a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Additionally, letting the meatballs rest in the sauce after baking can help them absorb moisture and become more tender.
Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time. Form them and place them in the baking pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or meal prep, ensuring that you can enjoy this delicious dish with minimal effort.
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).