Wilma'S Meatballs
Juicy homemade meatballs with garlic, parsley, and Romano cheese, simmered in rich spaghetti sauce—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together; grate cheese, garlic, and parsley very fine like dust.
- Roll the meat mixture into balls and place on an oiled cookie sheet with water added to the oil.
- Bake at 350° to 375° for 30 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese along with the Romano. If you're short on bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be a great substitute. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the flavor. When mixing the ingredients, avoid overworking the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Wilma's meatballs with a generous ladle of Prego spaghetti sauce on top, alongside a bed of spaghetti or gourmet-basmati rice-risotto. A fresh green salad and garlic bread make excellent side dishes. You can also use the meatballs in a sub sandwich for a delicious twist.
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, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave them, but be cautious not to overheat, which can dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wilma'S Meatballs contains roughly 1110 calories, with 34g protein, 174g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (112% of the Daily Value), protein (67% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1673mg per serving (73% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey meatballs can be a bit drier, so consider adding a bit more cheese or an extra egg to help retain moisture.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the spaghetti sauce, are also gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
Absolutely! After baking, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
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).