Ugly Shonton Meat Balls
Ugly Shonton Meat Balls are hearty, comforting meatballs made with ground chuck and seasoned with onions and spices, then simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce with wine. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, they offer rich flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to all.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, chopped onion, soaked bread, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder well and form into balls.
- Brown the meatballs gently in a skillet, then add wine and simmer until the wine is evaporated.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup mixed with milk to the skillet.
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce until the sauce reduces to about half.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of ground chuck. If you don't have white bread, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers soaked in milk. Adjust the spices to your taste; for an added kick, try incorporating some red pepper flakes. Remember to mix the ingredients gently to keep the meatballs tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of pasta or rice for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. You can also enjoy them as an appetizer with toothpicks and a dipping sauce. For a comforting dessert, consider following up with Christmas Pound Cake.
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 skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, or microwave them in short intervals until heated through. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ugly Shonton Meat Balls contains roughly 997 calories, with 18g protein, 194g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (41% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1868mg per serving (81% 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 make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, you can freeze them raw and cook them straight from the freezer when you're ready to enjoy them.
What can I use instead of wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with beef broth or a mixture of vinegar and water for acidity. This will still provide depth to the dish without the alcohol content. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain flavor.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The best way to ensure your meatballs are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Alternatively, cut one open to check; it should be no longer pink in the center and juices should 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).