Seasonings

• Choose your seasonings according to the type of dish you're serving. For example, adding a bit of adobo and a pinch of chili powder to your ground meat adds the perfect touch of Southwestern style when served with Spanish rice. Basil, oregano and garlic salt work well for classic Italian-style meals. For stroganoff, simply empty a packet of onion soup mix into your meat mixture for beefy flavor with just the right amount of bite.

Vegetables

• Diced vegetables add moisture, texture and naturally enhance the flavor of your meatballs. Try a little diced celery to add a texture and diced onions to enhance the meaty flavor. You can also add tiny bits of mushrooms lightly tossed with salt and pepper to bring out the subtle mushroom flavor. For spicier meatballs, add some diced green and red peppers and shaved garlic to the mix. For a real Mexican flair, toss in some chopped cilantro, too.

Coatings

• What's on the outside of your meatball enhances the flavor just as much as the inside. Coating your meatballs with cheese, sauce or breadcrumbs envelops them in exterior flavor. For a caramelized tomato-based coat, roll your meatballs in ketchup or barbecue sauce and bake them. For Southwestern style, use enchilada sauce. Roll your uncooked meatballs in Parmesan or Asiago cheese for a crunchy Italian style flavor, or panko breadcrumbs for an Asian-style meal.

Gravies and Sauces

• Just like marinating a steak, you can flavor meatballs by soaking them in your favorite sauce or gravy. For a subtle beefy, mushroom flavor, simmer your meatballs in cream of mushroom soup or mushroom gravy. If you prefer a lighter dressing, simmer them in au jus or French onion soup. Slather your meatballs in enchilada or mole sauce to soak up some Mexican flavor. And for spicy Italian meatballs, brown them in a skillet and simmer in pasta sauce.