Tricky Meat Balls
Savory meatballs infused with rice and vegetables, simmered in tomato soup for a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the onion and green pepper.
- Stir the grated onion and green pepper into the uncooked rice.
- Add salt, pepper, and a small amount of garlic to the mixture.
- Using a fork, lightly stir the mixture into the ground beef.
- Form the mixture into walnut-sized meatballs.
- Add 1/2 cup water to the tomato soup and heat in a baking pan.
- Drop the meatballs into the hot tomato soup.
- Bake for 1 hour until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano to the meatball mixture. If you're short on rice, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or cooked quinoa. To enhance the garlic flavor, use fresh minced garlic instead of a small amount. Additionally, mixing in some grated cheese can add richness to the meatballs, making them even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are delightful served over a bed of cooked pasta or rice, soaking in the flavorful tomato soup. Pair them with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a twist, serve them in a sub roll with melted cheese for a hearty sandwich. They also pair beautifully with American recipes like coleslaw for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tricky Meat Balls contains roughly 614 calories, with 14g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1158mg per serving (50% 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?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as substitutes for ground beef. Each will bring a different flavor and texture to the meatballs. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats may require less time in the oven.
What can I serve with Tricky Meat Balls?
Tricky Meat Balls are versatile and can be served with spaghetti, rice, or in a sandwich. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables would complement the dish well, adding a nice contrast to the rich tomato soup flavor.
How do I make the meatballs more tender?
To ensure tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Additionally, incorporating a bit of milk or using cooked rice instead of uncooked can add moisture. Letting the meatballs rest before cooking can also help them stay juicy and tender.
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).