We can all agree on the fact that when it comes to the best meatballs, our nonna’s have the best recipes as compared to frozen store-bought meatballs.
Let’s face it: It’s easy to see why meatballs from frozen aisle is so famous. We have no time mostly to prepare one homemade. We sometimes make meatballs only if time permits.
Nowadays grocery stores are flooded with may brands of best frozen Italian meatballs, frozen Swedish meatballs, or frozen meatballs ready-to-eat in marinara sauce.
The quality of the ingredients is a crucial factor to consider when choosing the best frozen meatballs.
Meatballs made from high-quality meats, such as beef, turkey, pork, or a mixture of the two, will provide a juicy and flavorful bite.
Selecting meatballs free of artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers is also essential.
It will not only improve the taste but is also a healthier choice for you and your loved ones.
Some brands offer frozen meatballs that have been flavored with cheese or herbs.
Key Takeaways
- Gardein Classic Plant-Based Meatballs and Beyond Meatballs Italian Style Plant-Based Meatballs are flavorful and satisfying plant-based alternatives that offer a good amount of vegetarian protein per serving.
- Nature’s Rancher Turkey Meatballs are a lean and protein-rich option that is Whole 30 Approved, Paleo, and Keto Friendly, but have mixed reviews on taste and texture.
- Cooked Perfect Organic Italian Beef Meatballs are made with 100% grass-fed organic beef and are raised without antibiotics or added hormones, but have mixed reviews on flavor and package size.
- Johnsonville Italian Meatballs are a popular choice for classic Italian-style meatballs, made with high-quality ingredients, and have positive customer reviews highlighting delicious taste and versatility.
Which is The 10 Best Store-Bought Frozen Meatballs Brands Out There
With some culinary finesse, you can create various tasty dishes with meatballs.
The best frozen meatballs are available in a variety of sizes. You can choose one that best suits your taste and requirements.
The smaller meatballs can be used as appetizers or added to soups. In contrast, the larger ones work well for main dishes.
Although baking is popular, pan-frying in a sauce or simmering can enhance the flavor and texture.
So, for example, simmering the meatballs in rich marinara sauce allows them to absorb all of its flavors. This results in a delicious dish.
You could also make a meatball sub by placing meatballs on a toasted bun, covering them in marinara sauce, and then topping them with cheese.
Let’s rank them now that we are all on the same page. This is our list of the frozen best store-bought meatballs that are worth buying and taste better (almost) than homemade.
10. Gardein Classic Plant-Based Meatballs
Gardein’s meatless, plant-based meatballs are a great option if you want to make delicious, hot meatballs at home.
The meatballs come in 8-packs and can be prepared within a few minutes. You can add meatballs into your own tomato sauce and serve with pasta or spaghetti.
The frozen plant-based meatballs taste deliciously thanks to a blend of herbs and spices. Gardein ensures that no dairy products have been inserted into meatballs.
Because the ingredients used do not violate Jewish dietary law, this best store-bought meatballs made from plant-based components are kosher.
The meatballs are already well-seasoned, so you don’t need to add anything else when cooking them.
Key Features:
- Brand: Gardein
- Product: Classic Plant-Based Meatless Meatballs
- Size: 12.7-ounce bag
- Flavor: Aromatic herbs for an Italian accent
- Protein Content: 14 grams per serving
- Cooking Time: Ready in 15 minutes
- Dietary Considerations: Dairy-free, certified vegan, and Non-GMO Project Verified
Pros:
- Delicious flavor and satisfying texture
- High protein content for a meatless option
- Quick and convenient to prepare
- Suitable for a variety of dietary preferences
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on taste and flavor
- Some may prefer a meat-based option
- May not be suitable for those with soy allergies
9. Nature’s Rancher Turkey Meatballs
Many of us are looking for frozen meatballs to make best meatballs like Nonna. Grab a bag of Nature’s Rancher Turkey Meatballs at Whole Foods if that’s the case.
The meatballs were fork-tender and had a wonderful texture. The slightly charred taste was an excellent addition, as it reminded us of the meatballs that are lovingly prepared over the stove.
The Nature’s Rancher store-bought frozen meatballs had a good blend of herbs, including dried garlic and parsley. They also tasted great because they contained ricotta & Romano cheese.
These meatballs are best paired with Italian dishes because of their Italian flavor.
Key Features:
- 22 oz package
- Fully cooked
- Whole 30 Approved, Paleo and Keto Friendly
- No Hormones Added
- Vegetarian fed, Antibiotic Free
- Global Animal Partnership Certified
Pros:
- Convenient and fully cooked
- Flavorful and well seasoned
- Whole 30 Approved, Paleo and Keto Friendly
Cons:
- Salty taste compared to other brands
- Texture may be strange to some consumers
8. Cooked Perfect Organic Italian Beef Meatballs
We love cooking from scratch whenever we have ample time to kill. We also like to use products that are easy to prepare and ready to use. Cooked Perfect Italian Beef Meatballs are one of those products we can rely on.
These meatballs can be used for a variety of dishes. You can use these meatballs to make more than just traditional spaghetti and meatballs or to make appetizers, calzones, subs, pizzas, soups and more.
My mom makes the best meatballs I have ever eaten – I have never liked any pre-made store meatballs and only tolerate restaurant meatballs, but these were shockingly great! Even my kids, including one who dislikes meatballs, loved them. I followed the bag directions and heated up the frozen meatballs in hot tomato sauce before serving over pasta. YUM! and so much faster & easier than making from scratch….WINNER!!!
Says B. Keeper on a review at amazon.com
This product is ideal for those evenings when you don’t have time or need a little assistance.
This meatballs are also great for those on the move. This is a highly convenient food to keep in your freezer.
Key Features:
- Made with 100% grass-fed organic beef
- Raised without antibiotics or added hormones
- G.A.P. 4 certified beef
- Flame-broiled to lock in natural flavors and juices
- Gluten-free
Pros:
- High-quality grass-fed organic beef
- Convenient and easy to prepare
- Suitable for various recipes
- Positive feedback on quality, price, and preparation time
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on flavor
- Some customers find the package size small and not worth the price
- Lack of tomato sauce included
7. Beyond Meatballs Italian Style Plant-Based Meatballs
These frozen Beyond Meatballs, are delicious, juicy, and full of flavor. They’re the perfect addition to your meal.
These meatballs are made with spices and plant-based meat. They’re healthier option like traditional meatballs, and they taste just as good.
Add them to your favorite pasta dish, or enjoy them with a sauce. You’re sure to love these Beyond Meatballs.
There are two packet sizes available: 12 meatballs or 24 meatballs for you to choose.
You can cook it in a skillet, or you can pre-heat your oven to 375°F and bake for 12-13 minutes.
You can find them in regular grocery stores or order at Amazon online.
Key Features:
- Beyond Meat Beyond Meatballs Italian Style Plant-Based Meatballs
- 12 count, 10 oz (Frozen)
- 19 grams of plant-based protein per serving
- 35% less saturated fat and sodium than leading Italian Style meatballs
- Made with simple, plant-based ingredients with no GMOs, soy, or gluten
- Vegan, kosher, and no antibiotics or hormones
Pros:
- Authentic Italian-style flavor without animal-based ingredients
- Versatile and can be used in various recipes
- Crafted with care and quality ingredients by Beyond Meat
- Easy to prepare from frozen
- Positive reviews about flavor, texture, and convenience
- Suitable for those looking for plant-based meat options
- Aligns with dietary choices and provides guilt-free meals
Cons:
- May be more expensive compared to conventional frozen meatballs
- Availability may vary depending on location
6. Kirkland Meatballs Italian-Style
Kirkland Signature Italian Style Meatballs are the perfect choice for a party or any other celebration.
These frozen meatballs are bursting with the flavor of ground Italian sausage! The Costco’s frozen meatballs are the most flavorful meatballs we’ve ever tasted.
The meatballs are 140 in a packet! This is perfect for large gatherings. You can save some of these for later by storing them in resealable plastic bags.
You can even reheat them in the microwave. The Kirkland frozen meatballs are seasoned with a mixture of spices and sea salt.
The marinara sauce balances out the tendency to over-salt—a touch of heat enhances the flavors.
They were by far the best store-bought meatballs frozen, tastes similar like homemade meatballs you can grab from local grocery stores.
5. Kroger Meatballs Swedish Style
Kroger’s frozen Swedish meatballs are better than most store-bought Swedish best frozen meatball brands.
The meatballs are small but not mini. They have a smooth inside texture contrasting with the crispiness on the outside.
These meatballs have been made from high-quality ingredients, and they are perfectly seasoned.
The spice level is perfect, highlighting flavors without overwhelming the palate.
The Kroger’s Swedish meatballs will impress whether they are served as a starter or part of the main course.
You can enjoy them as an appetizer on their own, with lingonberry sauce for a Swedish traditional twist, or in a pasta dish.
Tossing meatballs, al dente pasta and spicy tomato sauce together create an enticing meal for even the most discriminating palates.
4. Johnsonville Italian Meatballs
The frozen Italian Meatballs from Johnsonville are delicious, easy to make, and excellent for surprising the kids.
Johnsonville’s home-style meals are primarily made of water, breadcrumbs, and pork.
They do not contain artificial colors or flavors, nor do they have artificial flavors. This product is also fantastic because it uses premium beef cuts and no MSG.
If you are looking for recipes or exciting ideas, you can find instructions on preparing the chunks at the back of the package.
The store-bought meatballs are delicious and can be served with any pasta or sauce.
Indeed, Johnsonville’s Classic Italian Style meatballs make a great appetizer or main dish.
Key Features:
- 1.5lb package
- Made with premium cuts of meat
- Visible spice for flavor
- Convenient package with zipper
- 40% larger than the leading competitor
- No MSG or artificial flavors or colors
Pros:
- Delicious and loved by kids
- Easy to use and taste really good
- Great when added to pasta sauce or cooked with olive oil and garlic
- Can be cooked in an air fryer for a super result
- Well-seasoned and taste more like sausage than plain pork
- Really delicious in pasta sauce
Cons:
- Some customers received fewer meatballs than expected
- Some found the meatballs bland and lacking flavor
3. Rao’s Meatballs & Sauce
Who doesn’t like Rao’s brand of sauce? Rao’s delicious tomato sauce goes well with any pasta.
This product is a combination of the two where it includes their meatballs and their tomato sauce.
These meatballs consist of a mixture of pork and beef, smothered with delicious marinara.
Each regular pack contains six large meatballs, which are mouthwatering and soft once reheated. They retain their juiciness during your meal.
Rao’s meatballs are not dense but they are actually light and fluffy on the inside and full of flavor.
Rao’s frozen meatballs are sauced with Rao’s homemade marinara, among the top marinara we prefer.
Rao’s delicious best-frozen meatballs can now be ordered without a reservation online or at grocery stores.
Key Features:
- Brand: Rao’s Homemade
- Size: 24oz
- Ingredients: Italian tomatoes, tender and juicy meatballs, classic Italian ingredients
- No preservatives, no artificial colors or flavors
Pros:
- Delicious taste and flavor
- Premium quality ingredients
- Versatile and can be customized to your liking
- No preservatives or artificial additives
Cons:
- Some customers may prefer larger size meatballs
2. Farm Rich Homestyle Meatballs
Farm Rich Homestyle Meatballs are our choice for the best-frozen meatballs because they are made from simple ingredients and are full of taste and nutrition. Homestyle meatballs comprise steak, pork, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
You can choose from 26 oz. to 60 oz. This will allow you to select the size of the bag that you need for the amount of meatballs in your dish.
The frozen meatballs can be heated in the microwave, in an oven, on a stovetop, or in an air fryer.
These store-bought meatballs are great with various meals and sauces, including pasta and rice. They also go well in sandwiches. These meatballs are versatile enough to be used on their own.
Farm Rich meatballs are perfect for a family gathering or party.
They’re also fully cooked and frozen so that you can enjoy them at your convenience. Simply heat up and serve any number of dishes.
Key Features:
- Made with beef, pork, and authentic bread crumb recipe
- Fully cooked and frozen
- 26 oz package size
Pros:
- Delicious flavor with Italian seasoning and bread crumbs
- Quick and convenient to prepare, can be fried or baked in minutes
- Versatile for various dishes like spaghetti or meatball sandwiches
Cons:
- None mentioned in the background information.
1. Rosina Italian Style Meatballs
These Rosina Italian-style frozen meatballs are so tasty that they’re almost irresistible.
Rosina Italian meatballs is a recipe that has been passed down through three generations. As such, no surprise that it will have authentic Italian flavors, ingredients, and spices.
The item, made from a mixture of meat, poultry, and pork, provides a good source of protein and a healthy fat for a balanced meal.
It contains wheat, soy, and milk. These are great additions to salads, lasagnas, and soups. They can also be used in risotto or sliders.
Rosina Italian-style meatballs also contain Romano and breadcrumbs for a more flavorful taste. You can make restaurant-style meals from these frozen best store-bought meatballs.
Don’t worry about these meatballs being complicated and time-consuming!
If you want a quick meal, you can microwave them for a few minutes. You can also bake the frozen meatballs for 25 minutes in an oven and add your favorite sauce.
Key Features:
- Brand: Rosina
- Style: Italian
- Weight: 26 oz
- Frozen
Pros:
- Delicious flavor and texture
- Versatile and can be cooked in various ways
- No preservatives or artificial additives
Cons:
- Higher price compared to other options
- Availability can be limited in certain markets
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Frozen Meatballs Typically Last in the Freezer?
Frozen meatballs typically last in the freezer for up to three months. To ensure freshness, store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Are Frozen Meatballs Pre-Cooked or Raw?
Frozen meatballs are typically pre-cooked, saving you time in the kitchen. To ensure they’re heated through, follow the cooking instructions on the package. Look for the best brands that suit your taste, and serve them with your favorite sauce or pasta. Store leftovers properly and check the nutritional information for dietary needs.
Can Frozen Meatballs Be Reheated in the Microwave?
To reheat frozen meatballs in the microwave, place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Be sure to check for hot spots before serving.
Are There Any Gluten-Free Options Available for Frozen Meatballs?
Looking for gluten-free frozen meatball options? You’ll be pleased to know that there are several flavorful choices available. These gluten-free meatballs have a great texture and can be found at various stores, with prices comparable to regular meatballs.
Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Frozen Meatball Options?
Looking for plant-based alternatives? There are vegetarian and vegan frozen meatball options available. They come in a variety of flavors, can be cooked in different ways, and have textures that compare to traditional meatballs. Try them in recipes like spaghetti and meatballs or meatball subs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, after extensive research and taste testing, it’s clear that the best store-bought frozen meatballs offer a convenient and delicious option for those seeking a quick meal solution.
