Tasty Meatballs

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

Juicy meatballs coated in a tangy, sweet and savory sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comforting flavors with a hint of vinegar and Worcestershire.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. hamburger
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 1 c. oatmeal
  • 1 c. milk
  • 1/2 c. water
  • 1 c. ketchup
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 3 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 3 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Mix hamburger, chopped onion, oatmeal, and milk into meatballs.
  2. Mix ketchup, sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and salt together and pour over meatballs.
  3. Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to your meat mixture. If you're out of oatmeal, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can be a great substitute. Ensure the meatballs are well-mixed but not overworked to keep them tender. Using lean hamburger can help reduce excess grease during baking.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs are delicious served over spaghetti or alongside mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, pair them with a side salad or steamed vegetables. They also make a great filling for meatball subs. Consider making a larger batch for game day snacks or to pair beautifully with Dorothy'S Beans.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist, then cover with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tasty Meatballs contains roughly 638 calories, with 9g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1608mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).

638 kcal 32% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.9g 18% DV
Total Fat 14g 18% DV
Carbs 112.8g 41% DV
Fiber 3.6g 13% DV
Sugar 64.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1608.2mg 70% DV
Potassium 773.7mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 5.4mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 130.5mcg 14% DV
Vitamin C 18.6mg 21% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 274.1mg 21% DV
Iron 7.2mg 40% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 either before or after baking. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.

What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, you can use balsamic vinegar mixed with a dash of soy sauce to achieve a comparable taste.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The best way to ensure 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, cut one in half to check that 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).

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