Vegetarian Savory Beef Balls

Delight in the hearty, plant-based goodness of Vegetarian Savory Beef Balls, a flavorful twist on a classic meatball that's perfect for vegetarian diets and packed with rich umami taste. Made with textured vegetable protein (TVP) as the star ingredient, these protein-packed bites combine the savory depth of soy sauce, aromatic herbs like oregano and basil, and the subtle nuttiness of grated Parmesan. A quick pan-sear in olive oil creates a golden crust, while a short bake in the oven locks in the tenderness and flavor. Whether served atop spaghetti, tucked into a sandwich, or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, these versatile vegetarian meatballs are sure to impress. Ready in just under an hour, this comforting and nutritious dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Textured vegetable protein (TVP)
• 1 cup Boiling water
• 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
• 1 cup Breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.5 cup Finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves Minced garlic
• 0.25 cup Chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dried basil
• 1 large Egg
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil

Directions

Step 1

In a medium bowl, combine the textured vegetable protein (TVP) with boiling water and soy sauce. Stir well and let sit for 5 minutes until the TVP is rehydrated and soft.

Step 2

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rehydrated TVP, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, and basil.

Step 4

Add the egg, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 5

Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf-sized balls. You should be able to make about 16 to 18 balls.

Step 6

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Step 7

Once the oil is hot, add the formed balls to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 8

Transfer the browned balls to a baking dish.

Step 9

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the balls are firm and cooked through.

Step 10

Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve hot with your favorite sauce or in a pasta dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(821.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1664.3

Total Fat 56.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 16.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.7g
Cholesterol 259.5mg	0%
Sodium 4996.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 155.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 33.7g	0%
Total Sugars 19.1g
Protein 143.7g	0%

Vitamin D 53.8IU	0%
Calcium 981.5mg	0%
Iron 28.1mg	0%
Potassium 4356.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.8%

Protein: 33.8%

Carbs: 36.4%