Tasty Meat Balls
Juicy meatballs infused with savory flavors, coated in tangy ketchup sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, easy to prepare and oven-baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, crushed corn flakes, chopped onion, applesauce, salt, and garlic powder together well and shape into meatballs.
- Place the meatballs in a baking dish.
- Combine ketchup and water, then pour the mixture over the meatballs.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped parsley or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. If you don't have corn flakes, crushed breadcrumbs can serve as an effective substitute. Also, feel free to experiment with different ground meats like turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Mixing in some grated Parmesan can elevate the taste even further.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are delicious served over spaghetti or alongside garlic bread for a comforting meal. Pair them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. For a unique twist, try serving them with Mr. Harry'S Pit Cooked Barbecue Sauce for a smoky flavor. They also make great sliders if placed in small buns.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, ensuring they're heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tasty Meat Balls contains roughly 497 calories, with 7g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2611mg per serving (114% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking.
What can I use instead of applesauce?
If you don't have applesauce, you can substitute it with mashed banana or even a bit of plain yogurt for moisture. Each option will bring a slightly different flavor, but they will still keep the meatballs tender.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The best way to check if meatballs are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure they are no longer pink in the center and that 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).