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–+ servings
Meatballs from Elva Treyz
This 1973 meatball recipe from the kitchen of Elva Treyz is a nostalgic gem from mid-century American home cooking. Often served at potlucks and church gatherings, these hearty meatballs represent comfort food at its finest. The combination of ground beef, oats, and aromatic seasonings like garlic and onion provides depth, while simmering in a tangy ketchup and beer sauce gives the dish a rich, savory kick. Oats as a binder were common in Depression-era cooking, where families stretched meat further. This recipe captures the simplicity and flavor of that era, perfect for feeding a crowd with ease and heart.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 25
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lbs ground beef (use lean ground round for best results)
  • 1 medium onion (medium, finely chopped (about 1 cup))
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ¾ cup rolled oats
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup water
  • 14 oz bottle ketchup (typically 14 oz)
  • 12 oz beer (light lager or pilsner)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

  • Combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, oats, and pepper in a large bowl.
  • Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well distributed.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

  • Form mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
  • Set aside on a tray or plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  • In a large pot, combine water, ketchup, and beer.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

  • Once the liquid reaches a boil, carefully drop the meatballs into the sauce.
  • Simmer uncovered for 1 hour, occasionally stirring gently.

Tips

  • Use ground beef, pork, or a mix for richer flavor.
  • Substitute barbecue sauce for ketchup for a smoky twist.
  • Add breadcrumbs and egg for firmer meatballs if mixture feels loose.
  • Simmer in a slow cooker for tender results.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 14gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.8mg
Keyword comfort food, crowd-pleaser, ground beef, homemade, party food, retro recipes, vintage
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