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How to Freeze Meatballs

This method teaches you how to freeze meatballs for easy meal prep.
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Servings 4
Calories 298kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (453g) meatballs store bought or made using your favorite recipe.

Instructions

To freeze cooked or raw meatballs:

  • Prepare and form the meatball mixture according to your favorite recipe or purchase fresh meatballs from the grocery store.
  • Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. If using foil, spritz with cooking oil to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
  • Place the raw meatballs on the sheet pan, leaving space between the meatballs to prevent them from sticking together.
  • Place the tray in the freezer for 2 to 4 hours or until the meatballs are completely frozen.
  • Place the frozen meatballs into a ziptop bag or an airtight container until ready to use.

To thaw meatballs:

  • Remove a bag of frozen meatballs from the freezer and thaw in the fridge for several hours to overnight, if desired. You can also go directly from the freezer to the stovetop!
  • Add the meatballs to your favorite recipes. If using raw meatballs, make sure they reach a minimum temperature of 160 degrees F / 70 degrees C when checked with a meat thermometer.

For Meatballs in sauce:

  • Combine with sauce and freeze. To use, slowly bring the sauce to a simmer and heat thoroughly, stirring frequently.

Video

Notes

  • Use a large rimmed baking sheet that will fit inside your freezer. 
  • Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. 
  • If lining with foil, spray with cooking oil to prevent the meatballs from sticking. 
  • Flash frozen meatballs won't stick together, so you can freeze them in a large bag or divide them into individual servings.
  • Cool meatballs in the sauce before freezing. 
  • Label and date all of your freezer containers. 
  • If you wish to thaw, thaw overnight in the fridge. 
  • Reheat cooked meatballs in the microwave for a quick snack. 
  • You can cook with frozen meatballs. If using raw, frozen meatballs, make sure they are cooked through before serving. 
  • Meatballs should reach a minimum temperature of 160 degrees F / 70 degrees C when checked with a meat thermometer. 
  • Storage - meatballs can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • There are 10 Blue Plan SmartPoints in one serving of this.

Nutrition

Calories: 298kcal | Protein: 19g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 64mg | Potassium: 325mg | Vitamin A: 8IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg