Wine Meat Balls
Juicy meatballs infused with wine and potato, simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and hearty comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, tomato sauce, lemon juice, garlic salt, and wine.
- Simmer until sauce is thick, about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Combine shredded potato, ground beef, chopped onion, egg, and salt.
- Shape into small balls.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until cooked through and lightly browned.
- Drain off fat and pour the sauce over the meatballs before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the meatball mixture. If you don't have dry red wine, you can substitute with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version. Make sure to finely shred the potato to help the meatballs hold together better. This recipe can also be adapted to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these flavorful wine meatballs over a bed of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. They pair wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For an easy weeknight dinner, consider serving them alongside Western Skillet Rice for a complete and satisfying plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist, or microwave them covered for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Freezing is also an option; they can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wine Meat Balls contains roughly 843 calories, with 14g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 568mg per serving (25% 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 ground meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check that the meatballs are cooked through before serving. Using different meats can also change the flavor profile, so feel free to experiment!
How can I make the sauce thicker?
You can also add a small amount of tomato paste to enhance both the thickness and the flavor of the sauce.
What can I serve with wine meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served with various sides. Pasta, rice, or even a hearty bread can complement the dish well. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables also makes for a great pairing, adding a light contrast to the rich flavors of the meatballs and sauce.
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).