Sweet And Savory Meat Ball
Sweet and savory meatballs combine tender beef with a flavorful glaze of mushroom soup, tomatoes, vinegar, and brown sugar. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, they offer a delightful balance of flavors and a hearty, comforting taste that appeals to a wide range of palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onions, and beaten egg; shape into balls.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet and pour off the accumulated fat.
- Mix golden mushroom soup, chopped tomatoes, vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and pepper.
- Place the browned meatballs into a baking dish, cover with the soup mixture, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. If you're out of golden mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade mushroom sauce. To make this dish healthier, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap the brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet and savory meatballs make a great main dish and pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice. Consider serving them alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They can also be excellent as a party appetizer, served with toothpicks and a side of dipping sauce. For a complete meal, browse more American recipes to complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a bit of the sauce and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Savory Meat Ball contains roughly 283 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1431mg per serving (62% 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 these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after baking. If freezing before baking, shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter option. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture, so consider adjusting seasonings accordingly to suit your taste.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The best way to check if the meatballs are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for beef or 165°F for poultry. Alternatively, you can cut one open to ensure it's no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
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).