How to Reheat Meatballs Using the Top 3 Methods – Storing and Reheating Leftover Meatballs

Which dishes go well with spaghetti? The most popular response was meatballs, and we wholeheartedly concur! Meatballs are a classic comfort food that many people love to indulge in. 

Whether cooking them for a family dinner or just for yourself, there’s nothing like biting into a warm, juicy meatball. 

Let’s delve into how to reheat meatballs perfectly!

Quick Notes on How to Reheat Meatballs

Here are some general tips on how to reheat meatballs properly:

• The meatballs should always be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before being reheated.
• Keep leftover meatballs in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container or zip-lock bag.
• Remove any sauce or gravy that may have accumulated on the meatballs before reheating. 
• The meatballs need moisture when cooked in the oven or microwave.
• Make sure meatballs are not overcooked when reheating. The temperature should be 165°F (74°C).

The ways I have tried and tested

1. Microwave: This is the most convenient method. Don’t overcook meatballs, as they’ll become dry or rubbery.
2. Stovetop: Effective way and useful for pasta with sauces.
3. Oven:  An excellent option for preserving their taste.

Watch this video to have a more practical experience.

Reheating Meatballs Properly

Reheating meatballs properly is essential for preventing foodborne illnesses. Meatballs can harbor bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli when cooked. The bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature, especially in moist environments. For this reason, meatballs must be refrigerated or frozen and reheated at 165°F (74°C).

The texture and flavor of the meatballs can also be affected by improper reheating. When they are overheated, they can dry out; when they are underheated, they can become cold. 

As a result, it is important to pick the right reheating method and follow the steps closely.

Methods for Reheating Meatballs

You can reheat the meatballs in the oven, microwave, or stovetop. The choice depends on your preferences and the amount of time you have.

1. Reheating Meatballs in the Microwave (best method)

The microwave is the fastest appliance for reheating meatballs. The meatballs should be fully cooked in the basin underneath the ripped plastic wrap every 30 seconds. (Around 1-2 minutes).

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the meatballs in an oven-safe dish and cover them with foil or a lid to prevent them from drying out.
3. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the foil or lid and bake for 5-10 minutes to crisp up the exterior.
5. Once the meatballs are reheated, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

2. Reheating Meatballs on the Stove

Reheat the meatballs in the sauce-containing pan over medium heat on the stove. A few tablespoons of water can be added to the sauce as you cook the meatballs to help them soften. By the end of around 10 minutes, the meatballs should be well-heated. 

On the stove is the most typical way to reheat meatballs, which is perfect if you have a lot of sauce.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the meatballs in an oven-safe dish and cover them with foil or a lid to prevent them from drying out.
3. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the foil or lid and bake for 5-10 minutes to crisp up the exterior.
5. Once the meatballs are reheated, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

3. Reheating Meatballs in the Oven

Before putting the meatballs on a baking sheet, defrost the sauce with a few tablespoons of water to make reheating in the oven easier. 

If the meatballs seem dry, add extra water.

A great option for huge servings of meatballs is the oven. Although it takes longer than the other ways, it requires less work.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the meatballs in an oven-safe dish and cover them with foil or a lid to prevent them from drying out.
3. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the foil or lid and bake for 5-10 minutes to crisp up the exterior.
5. Once the meatballs are reheated, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Reheating Meatballs

Here are some tips to ensure that your reheated meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and safe to eat:

• Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Defrost frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating them.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatballs. They should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
• Add a splash of broth or water to the meatballs when reheating them to keep them moist.
• Do not overcrowd the meatballs in the reheating container. Leave some space for them to cook evenly.
• If using the microwave, stir the meatballs halfway through the reheating time to ensure even heating.

You may reheat your frozen meatballs in the oven, microwave, or stove. The microwave is the quickest method, but you must watch out not to overcook meatballs. 

The meatballs should be placed on a dish designed for the microwave, which should be set to 50% power. Each time the meatballs are heated, it takes 30 seconds.

Of course, you could defrost the frozen meatballs overnight in the refrigerator. Then you can reheat them using any of the methods above. To defrost meatballs more quickly, place them in a waterproof bag and dunk them in warm water.

How Long can you Store Cooked Meatballs in the Refrigerator or Freezer? 

You can store cooked meatballs in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. If you want to store meatballs in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. 

Ensure that meatballs are stored in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags labeled with the date before freezing.

It is best to thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the refrigerator or by cooking them in the microwave on defrost mode. Using one of the methods above, you can reheat them once they have been thawed.

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Meatballs

Leftover meatballs can be a great addition to many dishes. Here are some creative ways to use them:

Meatball subs: Slice the meatballs and place them in a sub roll with sauce and cheese.

Meatball pizza: Top a pizza crust with sauce, cheese, and sliced meatballs.

Meatball soup: Add sliced meatballs to a vegetable soup for a hearty meal.

Meatball stir-fry: Stir-fry meatballs with vegetables and sauce for a quick and easy meal.

Meatball sliders: Place a meatball and sauce in a slider bun for a tasty appetizer.

You may also like: How to Reheat Calamari

Conclusion

Now that you know how to reheat meatballs properly, you can enjoy delicious leftovers that are just as good as the original. You can use any household appliances, such as the cooktop, microwave, oven, air fryer, and instant pot, can be used to reheat meatballs. 

The microwave is the fastest option for individuals short on time, but it is not recommended for food containing condiments. Remember to store and label them properly before putting them in the fridge.

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