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, gatherings, or even a quick weeknight meal. With a blend of ground beef and flavorful seasonings, these meatballs are sure to delight your taste buds while being easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can whip up these meatballs in no time.
- Versatile Dish: Serve them as a main dish, in subs, or on top of pasta—these meatballs fit any meal occasion.
- Kid-Friendly: Their fun shape and tasty profile make them a hit with children and adults alike.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze them for later use—great for busy nights!
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Savory Meatloaf Meatballs, having the right tools makes the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients without spilling.
- Baking sheet: This allows for even cooking of your meatballs and easy cleanup when lined with parchment paper or foil.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavorful 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
Preheat 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 saltine crackers, minced onion, minced bell pepper, garlic powder, ketchup, brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and crushed tomatoes.
2. Crack the room temperature eggs into the mixture.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined but do not overmix.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
- Once mixed, take about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Place each meatball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until cooked through and browned on top.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done baking, let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite sides or sauces for an amazing meal!
How to Serve Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
Savory meatloaf meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, these meatballs can fit right into your meal plan.
Over Pasta
- Serve the meatballs on a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta, topped with marinara sauce for a comforting Italian-inspired dish.
In a Submarine Sandwich
- Place meatballs in a hoagie roll, drizzle with marinara, and sprinkle with cheese for a delicious meatball sub that’s perfect for lunch.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Pair the savory meatloaf meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up any extra sauce, creating a hearty meal.
On a Salad
- Add sliced meatballs to a fresh garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
As Appetizers
- Serve smaller versions of the meatballs on toothpicks as appetizers at parties, accompanied by dipping sauces like barbecue or ranch.
With Rice
- Serve alongside fluffy white rice or seasoned brown rice for an easy and filling dinner option that balances flavors well.
How to Perfect Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
To achieve the best savory meatloaf meatballs, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables provide more flavor than dried alternatives. Opt for fresh onions and peppers when possible.
Don’t overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until combined to ensure tender results.
Add moisture: Including crushed tomatoes or even a splash of broth helps keep the meatballs moist during baking.
Chill before baking: Allowing the uncooked meatballs to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices based on your taste preferences. Adding herbs like parsley or oregano can elevate the flavor.
Check doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
Best Side Dishes for Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
Serving savory meatloaf meatballs is all about complementing their rich flavors. Here are some excellent side dishes to serve alongside them.
Steamed Vegetables: A medley of colorful steamed veggies adds nutrition and balance to your meal.
Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread makes for an irresistible side, perfect for soaking up any sauce from the meatballs.
Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes are crunchy on the outside and soft inside, providing a delightful contrast.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can cut through the richness of the meatballs, adding crunch and tanginess.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a healthy alternative that pairs nicely.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is fun to eat and adds sweetness to balance out savory flavors.
Baked Beans: Flavorful baked beans complement meaty dishes well, providing extra protein and fiber.
Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb option, cauliflower mash mimics mashed potatoes while being lighter in calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Savory Meatloaf Meatballs more enjoyable. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the egg: Eggs help bind the ingredients together. Omitting them may lead to crumbly meatballs.
- Overmixing the meat mixture: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine just until everything is incorporated.
- Not using a thermometer: Undercooked meatballs can be unsafe. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is key to flavor. Don’t skimp on spices and sauces that enhance taste.
- Neglecting to rest: Letting meatballs rest after cooking allows flavors to meld. Give them at least 5 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow meatballs to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes, covered, until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes in a microwave-safe dish, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Simmer in a sauce over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Savory Meatloaf Meatballs.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will make lighter meatballs while still being flavorful.
How do I make gluten-free Savory Meatloaf Meatballs?
You can substitute saltine crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
Pair them with pasta, rice, or even in a sub sandwich for a hearty meal.
Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Savory Meatloaf Meatballs offer comfort and convenience in every bite. They’re perfect for busy nights or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize by adding different herbs or spices, or swapping ground meats based on your preference. Enjoy experimenting!
Savory Meatloaf Meatballs
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Savory Meatloaf Meatballs, a delightful twist on classic meatloaf that transforms it into bite-sized perfection. These hearty meatballs feature a blend of ground beef and an array of savory ingredients, making them a fantastic choice for family dinners, gatherings, or busy weeknights. Their versatility allows you to serve them over pasta, in sandwiches, or as appetizers—ensuring they’re a hit for both kids and adults. Plus, they are easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping!
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (or substitute with turkey or lamb)
- 1 sleeve finely crushed saltine crackers
- 2 room temperature eggs
- 1 medium yellow onion, minced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, minced
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, minced onion, minced bell pepper, ketchup, and crushed tomatoes.
- Add the eggs and mix gently until just combined.
- Form the mixture into two-tablespoon-sized meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 50 minutes or until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 120mg