Here’s my tried-and-true Savory Meatloaf Meatballs recipe, combining the cozy comfort of traditional meatloaf with the fun, convenient shape of meatballs. They’re perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep. These meatballs are flavorful, easy to make, and sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these meatballs in the oven in no time.
- Flavorful and Savory: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deliciously savory taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with pasta, in sandwiches, or on their own with dipping sauces for a fun twist.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love meatballs! These are a great way to get even picky eaters to enjoy their dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space to cook multiple meatballs evenly while allowing them to brown nicely.
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 2 pounds ground beef (or substitute with other ground meats, using 80/20 beef mix)
- 1 sleeve finely crushed saltine crackers
- 2 room temperature eggs
- 1 medium yellow onion, minced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, minced
- Generous shakes of garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Dash of black pepper
- A few shakes of worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes for extra saucy meatballs
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
How to Make Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs cook evenly from the start.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl:
1. Add the ground beef.
2. Stir in the crushed saltine crackers.
3. Mix in the minced onion and green bell pepper.
4. Add garlic powder, ketchup, brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and crushed tomatoes.
5. Finally, crack in the eggs and mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands:
1. Take about a golf ball-sized portion of the mixture.
2. Roll it into a ball shape.
3. Place each meatball on a lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on top.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite sides or sauces!
How to Serve Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
Savory meatloaf meatballs are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a fun gathering, these meatballs can elevate your meal.
On a Classic Plate
- Serve the meatballs with a generous portion of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a homestyle dinner experience.
In a Sub Sandwich
- Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, add marinara sauce, and top with shredded cheese for a delicious meatball sub.
Over Pasta
- Toss the savory meatloaf meatballs with your favorite pasta and sauce for an easy, comforting meal that everyone will love.
As Party Appetizers
- Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve them warm with dipping sauces like barbecue or ranch for tasty appetizers.
How to Perfect Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
To make your savory meatloaf meatballs even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose the right beef: Opt for an 80/20 ground beef mix for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
- Mix gently: Avoid over-mixing the ingredients; this keeps the meatballs tender.
- Use room temperature eggs: This helps bind the ingredients together more effectively.
- Add moisture: Incorporate crushed tomatoes or broth into your mixture for juicy meatballs.
- Preheat your oven: Ensure your oven is hot before baking to help form a nice crust on the outside.
- Rest before serving: Allow the cooked meatballs to rest for a few minutes; this helps them stay juicy when cut.
Best Side Dishes for Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
Pairing side dishes with savory meatloaf meatballs can enhance their flavor and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an indulgent side.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized complements the savory flavors perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to hearty meatballs.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes a wonderful base for soaking up sauce.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings summer vibes to any meal and balances savory dishes nicely.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, brightening up the overall dish.
- Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans offer a sweet contrast that pairs well with savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Savory Meatloaf Meatballs.
- Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine your ingredients until just mixed for a tender texture.
- Skipping the Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. Don’t forget them, or you may end up with crumbling meatballs.
- Neglecting to Season: A lack of seasoning will lead to bland meatballs. Be generous with spices and herbs to enhance flavor.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect cooking times and textures. Always preheat your oven for even cooking.
- Ignoring Cooking Time: Overcooking can dry out your meatballs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Forgetting to Rest: Allowing the meatballs to rest before serving helps retain moisture. Don’t rush this step for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
- Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop: Simmer in a pan over medium heat with a little broth or sauce until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Savory Meatloaf Meatballs.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that works well in this recipe, providing a lighter option while still being delicious.
How do I customize Savory Meatloaf Meatballs?
Feel free to add vegetables like grated zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition, or experiment with different spices for varied flavors.
What should I serve with Savory Meatloaf Meatballs?
These meatballs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and shape your meatballs ahead of time, refrigerate them, then bake when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Savory Meatloaf Meatballs bring comfort and convenience together in one delicious dish. Their versatility allows for various customization options, whether you prefer different meats or added veggies. Try this recipe today and enjoy a cozy meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
Savory Meatloaf Meatballs are the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making them an ideal choice for busy family dinners or gatherings. These delightful meatballs combine ground beef with a medley of flavorful ingredients, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With only 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these juicy meatballs baking in the oven, ready to impress your family and guests alike. Whether served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or paired with your favorite dipping sauces as appetizers, these meatballs are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, allowing you to make a large batch for quick meals throughout the week. Enjoy a comforting meal that’s rich in flavor and simple to make!
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 sleeve finely crushed saltine crackers
- 2 room temperature eggs
- 1 medium yellow onion, minced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, minced
- Generous shakes of garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Dash of black pepper
- 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, minced onion, green bell pepper, garlic powder, ketchup, brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, and crushed tomatoes.
- Add eggs and mix until well combined.
- Shape mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 50 minutes or until thoroughly cooked and browned.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 336
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 601mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 114mg