Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

Here’s my tried-and-true recipe for Savory Meatloaf Meatballs, combining the cozy comfort of traditional meatloaf with the fun, convenient shape of meatballs. They’re perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. With a blend of flavors and textures, these meatballs will surely become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and is simple enough for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own with your favorite side dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze them for later use.
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore the bite-sized shape, making them more appealing for even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Savory Meatloaf Meatballs, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process goes smoothly.

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 mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting meatballs in the oven, ensuring they cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil: Lining your baking sheet helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

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 start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, minced onion, minced bell pepper, garlic powder, ketchup, brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, worcestershire sauce, and canned crushed tomatoes.
2. Add the room temperature eggs to bind everything together.

Step 3: Mix Thoroughly

Using your hands or a spatula:
* Gently mix until all ingredients are well combined but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs

Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs:
* Place each meatball on a lined baking sheet as you go.

Step 5: Bake

Once shaped:
* Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until cooked through.

Now you have a delicious batch of Savory Meatloaf Meatballs ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

Savory Meatloaf Meatballs are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting friends, these meatballs can elevate any meal.

On a Bed of Pasta

• Serve your meatballs over spaghetti or any pasta of your choice for a classic Italian twist. Top with marinara sauce and grated cheese for extra flavor.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Pair meatloaf meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting dish. The smooth texture of the potatoes complements the hearty meatballs beautifully.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Create a delicious meatball sub by placing the meatballs in a toasted hoagie roll, smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions of Savory Meatloaf Meatballs on toothpicks as appetizers at your next gathering. They’re easy to eat and always a hit!

How to Perfect Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

To achieve the best results with your Savory Meatloaf Meatballs, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and peppers enhance flavor significantly compared to dried ones.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep the meatballs tender instead of tough.
• Chill Before Cooking: Letting the mixture chill for about 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes shaping easier.
• Add Extra Sauce: Incorporating crushed tomatoes into the mix adds moisture and flavor, making your meatballs juicier.
• Experiment with Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a unique twist.
• Brown Before Baking: Searing the meatballs in a pan before baking gives them an added depth of flavor and a nice crust.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

Savory Meatloaf Meatballs pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic side that is perfect for soaking up any sauce from your meatballs. Toasted slices brushed with garlic butter add crunch and flavor.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A colorful mix of seasonal veggies, roasted until caramelized, provides a healthy balance to the savory meatballs.

3. Coleslaw
   A refreshing slaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the meatballs.

4. Quinoa Salad
   Light and nutritious, quinoa salad mixed with herbs and vegetables makes for an excellent side that enhances the meal’s health profile.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn is an easy-to-make side that brings summer vibes and pairs well with savory dishes like these meatballs.

6. Steamed Green Beans
   Simple yet elegant, steamed green beans dressed with olive oil or butter provide a fresh touch alongside hearty meatballs.

7. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes adds an interesting contrast to the rich flavors of Savory Meatloaf Meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Savory Meatloaf Meatballs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips on what to avoid.

• Skipping the breadcrumbs: Not using breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can lead to dry meatballs. Always add a binding agent to retain moisture.
• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make your meatballs tough. Combine ingredients until just blended for a tender texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season adequately can result in bland meatballs. Be generous with spices and herbs for flavor.
• Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can affect the mixture’s consistency. Always use room temperature eggs for better binding.
• Ignoring the cooking time: Cooking meatballs for too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them to ensure they remain juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Savory Meatloaf Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Properly stored, they will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Simmer in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of broth or sauce until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Savory Meatloaf Meatballs.

Can I use other meats for Savory Meatloaf Meatballs?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, lamb, or even plant-based alternatives depending on your preference.

How do I make Savory Meatloaf Meatballs gluten-free?

Simply replace saltine crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

What should I serve with Savory Meatloaf Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I customize my Savory Meatloaf Meatballs?

Absolutely! You can add chopped vegetables, different spices, or even cheese according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Savory Meatloaf Meatballs offer a delightful twist on a classic dish. Their versatility allows you to customize them easily, whether you prefer extra herbs or different meats. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comfort of home-cooked flavors!

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Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the comfort of Savory Meatloaf Meatballs, a delightful fusion of traditional meatloaf flavors in a convenient bite-sized form. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these juicy meatballs promise to be a hit with everyone at your table. Packed with a blend of spices and vegetables, they offer a satisfying taste experience that complements various side dishes. Whether served over pasta, nestled in a sub sandwich, or enjoyed as an appetizer, these meatballs are versatile and incredibly easy to prepare. Try this simple recipe today and bring warmth to your dining table!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds ground beef (or other ground meats)
• 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
• Worcestershire sauce (or alternative)
• 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, minced onion, minced bell pepper, garlic powder, ketchup, brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and crushed tomatoes.
3. Add eggs and mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing.
4. Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for about 50 minutes or until fully cooked.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 meatball (85g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 80mg