Meatballs and potatoes is one of those meals that everyone loves, but doesn’t know how it was made.
So we decided to put together this article on why you should eat meatballs and what makes them so good!
How Many Meatballs Are In A Typical Recipe?
The traditional way to make these dishes is by cooking beef or pork with onion, garlic and seasoning.
Then mixing all of that up into small balls with breadcrumbs before frying them until they turn golden brown.
This recipe requires about 20-30 minutes of preparation time.
Meatballs and potatoes is also very popular as an appetizer at parties.
But there are some people who don’t really like to cook much, especially when there is no need for it.
So if you want to enjoy your favorite food without spending too much effort preparing it, then check out our guide to eating meatballs and potatoes online.
Ingredients for Meatballs and Potatoes
- 1 pound ground chuck (or other hamburger)
- 1/4 cup minced onions
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely chopped
- Salt & pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
- Butter
- Potato cubes
Steps for Making Meatballs and Potatoes
- Combine ground meat, onions, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs in a large bowl.
- Form mixture into 1″ diameter meatballs and place them on baking sheet lined with paper towels.
- In deep fryer or Dutch oven, heat 2 inches oil over medium high heat.
- Fry meatballs until golden brown, turning once during cooking process.
- Drain excess grease from pot and add butter along with potato cubes.
- Add meatballs back to pot and cover tightly.
- Cook over low heat for 25 minutes.
- Serve hot with additional butter on top.
Variations
There are several ways to change the flavor of this dish.
You can use different kinds of meats, such as chicken or turkey instead of beef, lamb or pork.
If you want to make your own gravy, try adding flour to water and whisking until smooth.
What Is The Origin Of The Meatball?
The meatball is an Italian-American food item that originated from Northern Italy.
The exact origins of the dish are unknown, but they have been around since at least the 16th century.
In modern times, there are two main theories about where the meatball came from.
One theory suggests that the meatball is actually a Roman dish called “Cotechini” (pronounced coo-tee-CHEE-nee).
Another theory says that the meatball comes from Jewish cuisine and has its roots in ancient Greece.
It seems like both theories are true because some people believe that the Cotechini served by the Romans was similar to the meatballs eaten today, while other sources say that the Greeks gave us our version of meatballs with their famous sausage balls.
History of Cotechini
According to the Food Timeline website, the word cotecchini means “little sausages” or “fatty little sausages.” However, these were not the same as meatballs.
They were small, fatty sausages used during religious feasts.
These sausages were made out of pork, beef, veal, eggs, cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs.
They were then cooked over a fire until crispy outside and soft inside.
This type of sausage and other types of sausages were common throughout Europe and even into Africa before being brought back to Rome in the 15th century.
As time went on, the name cotecchini evolved to mean “small sausages” instead of “fatty little sausages.”
Eventually, it became associated with meatballs, which were similar to the ones found today.
History of Sausage Balls
While researching the history of the meatball, I discovered that Italians didn’t always make meatballs out of ground beef.
Some believed that they came from Germany when the Germans invaded northern Italy in World War II.
Others said that they were introduced to Italy by the Spanish when they conquered Naples in the 1500s.
Regardless of who invented the meatball, it is clear that it has had a long history.
Now let’s go over some facts about this American favorite.
Why Are Meatballs Usually Round?
The answer lies in the shape itself.
A traditional Italian meatball has a round shape because they were traditionally cooked in a pan or pot with oil.
The fat would surround each ball as they cook which gives them their characteristic “biscuit-like” texture when eaten.
But there are other ways to make these tasty morsels.
You can use chicken stock instead of water to help the balls hold their shape while cooking.
Or if you want to go all out try making your own sausage meat from scratch.
How Many Potatoes Are In A Typical Recipe?
You may have noticed that almost every recipe calls for “a couple of medium sized red potatoes.” But what does that mean exactly? And where do these recipes come from?
The answer comes down to two words: Weight Watchers and Pinterest.
The first thing I did when my husband told me he wanted to lose weight was find out how much they weighed.
Then I found out about their points per pound value (PPP).
After doing some research, I realized this would make cooking easier because I could use smaller portions without worrying about over eating or having too little food to finish off.
With PPP values as well as point-free measurements, I now easily see how much a certain amount of food will cost at the grocery store with no guesswork involved.
But back to our main question… How many potatoes are in a typical recipe?
Weight Watchers Points Per Pound Value Calculator
To figure out how many pounds of potatoes you need, enter your desired serving size into the calculator below.
You will then receive an output showing how many pounds of potatoes you would need to purchase if you were following Weight Watchers guidelines.
If you want to calculate just how many ounces of potatoes you need instead, click here.
What Is The Best Way To Cook Potatoes?
Potatoes are not only great as potato chips or mashed into creamy goodness, they also make an excellent side dish with your favorite main course.
You will find potatoes in most recipes from soups to salads to stews to casseroles and even desserts.
They have a variety of uses because of their versatility.
But when cooking potatoes there are two basic ways to prepare them.
One method involves boiling then peeling and cutting the potatoes while the other requires baking.
- Boiling/peeling: Boiled potatoes are usually cooked until tender enough to cut up easily.
- Baking: Baked potatoes are often prepared by placing raw potatoes inside a large oven-safe pot (usually metal) filled with water and salt.
- The heat causes the moisture content of the potato to rise which allows the steam to build pressure within the vegetable forcing out the starch and creating softness.
The difference between these two methods is important since some foods cannot handle direct contact with high temperatures.
For example, if you were grilling steak instead of roasting potatoes, you would want to use the frying pan method rather than the oven method.
What Is The Nutritional Value Of A Meatball?
If you have ever wondered about the nutritional value of your food, then you will love this article.
I am going to explain what a meatball is, as well as what exactly goes into making one, what they contain, and where people get their information from when it comes to nutrition facts.
But first, let me tell you who my guest author is.
- My name is Emily Eberhard and I am a personal trainer in New York City.
- You may recognize me from The Biggest Loser, or perhaps you saw me at the top of the stairs dancing like no one was watching while training our contestants.
- I also run the blog Nutrition Rules which focuses on helping women make better eating choices.
- This post contains affiliate links.
- If you click through and purchase something using these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
- Thank you for supporting this site!
- For more info see my disclosure statement.
What Are Some Common Ways To Serve Meatballs?
The most popular way to serve meatballs is as an appetizer or starter at dinner parties.
They are also perfect when served in sandwiches like heros, club subs, or grilled cheese.
You can even find meatball recipes that call for stuffing your meatballs into hot dogs, making them easier to cook.
The possibilities really are endless, and there are no rules about which way they go best!
What Are Some Common Side Dishes To Serve With Meatballs?
This may sound like an odd question, but there are lots of different types of sides that go well alongside your favorite meatball recipes.
From salads to fresh fruit, these options will make sure you don’t feel deprived when you want to enjoy a tasty dinner without having to sacrifice anything else in your kitchen.
Salads
- Arugula salad – A great way to add protein to your plate without sacrificing flavor.
- Beets and bok choy salad – Bok Choy has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels by fighting off heart disease.
- Bacon-wrapped asparagus – Bacon wrapped asparagus is a quick and easy appetizer that also happens to taste amazing.
- If you have more time, try making homemade bacon bits or using store bought ones instead.
- Caesar salad – Caesar Salad is one of our favorite summertime ingredients, especially when paired with grilled seafood.
- Cucumber and tomato salad – Cucumbers are high in vitamin B6 which helps keep blood sugar stable and lowers bad (LDL) cholesterol.
- Green bean casserole – Green beans are filled with antioxidants that protect against free radicals, which damage cells throughout the body.
- They also contain folate, which reduces homocysteine, a compound associated with cardiovascular disease.
- Mixed green salad – Mixed greens are low in calories, rich in nutrients, and full of fiber.
- Plus they look beautiful on a platter.
- Potato chips – Potato chips are surprisingly healthy, packed with vitamins and minerals.
- They can even give you a little something extra if you pair them with dip.
Fruit
- Applesauce – Applesauce is sweetened apples mixed with cinnamon and vanilla.
- It is a wonderful accompaniment to pork chops or turkey sandwiches.
- Bananas – Bananas are rich in potassium which keeps muscle contractions smooth and regular.
- Potassium regulates nerve impulses and helps muscles relax after exercise.
- Blueberries – Blueberries are high in Vitamin C and are known to boost brain power.
- So while blueberry muffins are fun, eating blueberries straight from the jar is healthier.
- Grapes – Grapes are loaded with resveratrol, a chemical found in red wine that has anti-aging properties.
- In fact, studies show that people who drink grape juice every day live up to two years longer than non-drinkers.
- Grape seed extract works similarly.
- Kiwi – Kiwis are high in fiber, Vitamins C and K, and antioxidants which fight cancer and prevent inflammation.
- Orange slices – Orange slices are a refreshing addition to almost any meal.
- You get all of the benefits of oranges plus the added benefit of being able to see through them if necessary.
Vegetables
- Broccoli slaw – Broccoli contains sulforaphane, a powerful antioxidant that protects against prostate cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, and other forms of cancer.
- Carrots – Carrots are packed with beta carotene, a form of vitamin A that prevents vision problems and degenerative diseases such as macular degeneration.
- Spinach – Spinach is considered a superfood because it is rich in iron and magnesium, both of which play important roles in keeping us healthy.
- Sweet potatoes – Sweet potatoes provide plenty of carbs and are also very nutritious.
- One medium potato provides about 15% of daily recommended intake of vitamin C.
Dips
- Basil pesto dipping sauce – Basil pesto dipping sauce is perfect for serving with chicken fingers, fries, or pizza.
- The basil adds a hint of flavor without adding too many calories.
- Guacamole – Guacamole is traditionally used as a topping for tacos, nachos, and burritos.
- But it tastes just as good piled onto vegetables or served over fish.
- Ranch dressing – Ranch dressing is usually served with burgers, hot dogs, or cheese sticks.
- It is made with natural yogurt and herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic.
- Add in some shredded carrots or celery if desired.
Soups
- Chicken noodle soup – Chicken noodle soup is a traditional cold remedy that has been around since ancient times.
- There are several variations depending on where you live, but most include noodles, broth, and sometimes diced chicken.
- Many people prefer to use their own stock rather than canned vegetable broth.
- Minestrone soup – Minestrone soup originated in Italy and is often served with pasta.
- It includes tomatoes, onions, zucchini, peas, spinach, and loads of spices.
- Some versions also include rice or barley.
What Are Some Common Toppings For Meatballs?
Topping your meatballs is pretty much optional, as long as they have sauce.
There are three main types of topping you will find in most restaurants serving up meatballs: cheese, breadcrumbs, or bacon (or all of these).
- Cheese – A lot of people like adding cheese to their meatball because it adds flavor and texture.
- Breadcrumbs – Another option is using breadcrumbs instead of cheese.
- If you want something crunchy, then this works well too.
- You could also use panko crumbs if you want more of a savory taste than crispy.
- Bacon – For an extra kick, add some cooked bacon strips around the top of the meatball before baking.
- The fat from the bacon helps keep the bottom of the ball moist while cooking.
What Are Some Common Sauces For Meatballs?
A lot of people will tell you that there isn’t much difference between different kinds of meatball recipes, but that’s simply not true at all.
There are many types of meatballs in existence, each with their own way of making them.
Some use ground beef while others go for ground pork or lamb, which gives you choices when deciding to make your own version of meatballs.
With that said, however, most meatballs include either tomato sauce or ketchup as an ingredient.
These two ingredients pair well with almost anything, so they have become staples in American cuisine.
They also add flavor without being overwhelming – perfect if you want something tasty but don’t necessarily want to taste too much of it.
On top of that, these two sauces are both very versatile.
You can use either for just about everything from marinara sauce to gravy to dipping sauces.
The only thing I would say is that ketchup might be better for dipping than tomato sauce because it has more acidity.
So, if you prefer sweeter foods, then try using tomato sauce instead.
Another important note is that you can always substitute other sauces like barbecue sauce or chili sauce depending on your personal preference.
In fact, many meatball restaurants even offer a choice of sauces alongside their signature dishes.
But remember, no matter what kind of sauce you choose to use, it must complement the dish you are putting it on.
If you like sweet things, then you may think chocolate is the best option for dessert, but that’s not really the case.
Chocolate is actually a great pairing with savory food, especially meatballs.
This is because dark chocolate contains a higher percentage of cocoa solids compared to milk chocolate.
Cocoa solids contain antioxidants and polyphenols (which helps fight cancer) and therefore help improve health overall.
Since meatballs often come with a side of pasta, adding a little bit of chocolate to your meal will give it an extra kick and make it tastier.
If you aren’t into chocolate yet, though, you can still enjoy these meatballs by themselves.
Just keep in mind that they won’t be nearly as satisfying as they were served with pasta.
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
- 400 g potatoes floury
- 500 g lean minced beef
- 4 tablesp tomato ketchup
- 1 egg
- 4 tablesp breadcrumbs
- nutmeg grated
- 1 onion peeled and chopped
- 1 garlic clove peeled and chopped
- 400 g tomatoes chopped
- 200 ml tomato paste
- Handful fresh basil roughly chopped
- 20 g butter
- 8 cherry tomatoes halved
- 50 g grated cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (Gas Mark 6).
- Peel and cut the potatoes into cubes.
- Combine the minced meat, 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup, the egg, and the breadcrumbs in a mixing bowl.
- Make 12-15 meatballs with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Fry the meatballs for a few minutes in butter.
- Place the onion and garlic, along with the potato cubes, on a large baking sheet.
- Combine the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and 2 tablespoons ketchup in a mixing bowl.
- Mix in some chopped basil after seasoning the potatoes.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the size of the meatballs.
- Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes halfway through the cooking time.
- Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated cheese on top.
Video
Nutrition
My blog is all about creating delicious meals with ingredients that are easy to find in your local grocery store. I’m passionate about making yummy meals that I can share with my friends and family.