Tootsie'S Meatballs
Juicy, flavorful meatballs made with lean beef, Romano cheese, and herbs, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, baked to tender perfection in a savory coating.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add beaten eggs to the ground meat and mix well.
- Add bread crumbs, Romano cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and water; mix thoroughly until combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs of uniform size.
- Place the meatballs on a greased cookie sheet and bake in a 325°F oven for 30 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you want a lighter option, substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey. For a gluten-free version, use crushed gluten-free crackers instead of bread crumbs. Ensure the meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking, and don't overcrowd the baking sheet.
Serving Suggestions
Tootsie's Meatballs are delicious served with spaghetti and marinara sauce, making a classic Italian meal. They also pair beautifully with Sicilian Casserole or can be enjoyed in a sub sandwich with melted cheese for a hearty lunch. Consider a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help retain their texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tootsie'S Meatballs contains roughly 340 calories, with 11g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium.
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, you can freeze the meatballs before or after baking. If freezing raw, shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked meatballs, allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer with toothpicks. They also go well with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For a comforting dish, pair them with Ragu Italian Bake for a delicious meal.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can also cut one open to check that the center is no longer pink and the juices run clear. Baking them for 30 minutes at 325°F usually ensures they are thoroughly cooked.
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).