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, potlucks, or a cozy night at home. These meatballs stand out due to their rich flavor and satisfying texture, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of spices and vegetables creates a delicious taste that will leave everyone asking for more.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own with a side salad.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love meatballs! These are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them ahead of time and freeze for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking your Savory Meatloaf Meatballs, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for baking the meatballs evenly without crowding.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for these delicious Savory Meatloaf Meatballs:

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

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the ground beef, crushed saltines, eggs, minced onion, minced bell pepper, garlic powder, ketchup, brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, worcestershire sauce, and crushed tomatoes.
2. Use your hands to mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the meatballs tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands:
– Form the mixture into equal-sized balls (about the size of a golf ball).
– Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). They should be browned on the outside and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done:
– Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
– Enjoy these savory meatloaf meatballs with your favorite sides or sauces!

How to Serve Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

Savory Meatloaf Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways. These meatballs bring comfort and flavor to any meal, making them a perfect choice for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Over Pasta

• Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta, topped with marinara sauce for a classic Italian dish.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Pair these meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy for a hearty meal that feels like home.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Place meatballs in a toasted sub roll, add marinara sauce and melted cheese for a delicious meatball sub.

With Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter option that balances the richness of the meatballs.

On Skewers

• Thread cooked meatballs onto skewers with veggies for an easy appetizer or fun party food.

As an Appetizer

• Offer bite-sized meatballs on toothpicks with dipping sauces for a tasty starter at gatherings.

How to Perfect Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

Creating perfect Savory Meatloaf Meatballs requires some simple techniques. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

• Choose the right meat: Using an 80/20 blend of ground beef ensures juicy and flavorful meatballs.
• Don’t overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep the meatballs tender.
• Use room temperature eggs: This helps bind the mixture better, resulting in firmer meatballs.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on seasonings; they elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Bake instead of fry: Baking allows for even cooking and less mess compared to frying.
• Add moisture: Incorporating crushed tomatoes keeps the meatballs saucy and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

Savory Meatloaf Meatballs pair wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up sauce from the meatballs.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Fresh steamed vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf can absorb flavors from the sauce while adding texture.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the meatballs.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring a delightful crunch and earthiness.
6. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a comfort food favorite that pairs well with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Savory Meatloaf Meatballs can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using the wrong meat: Always choose ground beef with a good fat content, like 80/20, for moist meatballs. Leaner meats can lead to dry results.
• Skipping the binder: Crushed saltine crackers help hold the meatballs together. Forgetting them might cause your meatballs to fall apart during cooking.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can result in tough meatballs. Combine just until everything is evenly mixed.
• Not letting them rest: Allowing your meatballs to rest for a few minutes before cooking helps maintain their shape and keeps them juicy.
• Ignoring seasoning: A well-seasoned mixture is key. Don’t skimp on spices; they elevate the flavor of your savory meatloaf meatballs.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked savory meatloaf meatballs in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

• For longer storage, freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Arrange meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Savory Meatloaf Meatballs spicy?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mixture before forming into meatballs. Adjust according to your spice preference.

Can I use turkey instead of beef for Savory Meatloaf Meatballs?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative. Just ensure it has enough fat content for moisture.

What sauce pairs well with Savory Meatloaf Meatballs?

A classic marinara sauce or homemade barbecue sauce complements these meatballs wonderfully.

How long do Savory Meatloaf Meatballs take to cook in the oven?

Typically, they will take about 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C) when cooked thoroughly.

Can I customize my Savory Meatloaf Meatball recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables or different herbs and spices for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Savory Meatloaf Meatballs are not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various herbs, sauces, or sides. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep options, so don’t hesitate to give it a try!

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Savory Meatloaf Meatballs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Savory Meatloaf Meatballs combine the heartwarming appeal of traditional meatloaf with the fun, bite-sized convenience of meatballs. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home, these meatballs are packed with rich flavors and texture that both kids and adults will love. With a simple list of ingredients and easy preparation steps, this recipe ensures you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Whether served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad, these versatile meatballs promise satisfaction in every bite.

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Ingredients

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• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 sleeve finely crushed saltine crackers
• 2 room temperature eggs
• 1 medium yellow onion, minced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, minced
• Garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Dash of black pepper
• Worcestershire sauce
• 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 saltines, eggs, minced onion and bell pepper, garlic powder, ketchup, brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and crushed tomatoes.
3. Mix gently by hand until just combined; avoid overmixing.
4. Form mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for about 50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 meatballs (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 105mg