Meatballs are a beloved dish in many cuisines around the world, and this recipe for Juicy Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is no exception. Combining the richness of minced beef and pork with a flavorful tomato sauce, this dish is both hearty and comforting. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

Meatballs:

• 500g minced beef
• 400g minced pork
• 1/2 onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• Salt, pepper
• 1 tsp herb flakes
• Bread soaked in milk (squeeze some milk out before adding to meat mixture)
• 1 tsp paprika powder
• Parmesan cheese (grated)

Tomato Sauce:

• 1 kg canned tomato sauce
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 chicken stock cube

Directions:

Prepare the Meatballs:

1. Chop Onion and Garlic:
   • Finely chop 1/2 onion and 3 cloves of garlic.
2. Stir-fry:
   • In a medium-heated pan, add cooking oil and butter.
   • Add chopped onion and stir-fry until lightly browned, then add garlic and stir-fry until dark brown.
   • Transfer to a bowl and let cool.
3. Soak Bread:
   • Soak bread in milk, then squeeze out some of the milk.
4. Mix Ingredients:
   • In a bowl, combine 500g minced beef, 400g minced pork, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground pepper, 1 tsp paprika powder, 1 tsp herb flakes, 1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, the soaked bread, and the stir-fried onions and garlic. Mix well.
5. Shape Meatballs:
   • Divide the meat mixture into approximately 22 pieces.
   • Use a spoon or a similar tool to ensure consistent size.
   • Shape into round balls, wetting your hands with water if the mixture is too sticky.

Cook the Meatballs:

1. Cook:
   • In a medium-heated pan, add 2 Tbsp cooking oil.
   • Cook the meatballs for about 2 minutes on each side, for a total of 10 minutes.
   • Once cooked, transfer to a bowl.

Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

1. Heat Sauce:
   • In a pot, add 1 kg canned tomato sauce and heat over medium heat.
2. Season:
   • Add 1 Tbsp sugar, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground pepper, and 1 chicken stock cube.
   • Stir well and bring to a boil.
3. Add Meatballs:
   • Once the sauce starts to boil, add the cooked meatballs.
   • Simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

Serve:

1. Ready to Serve:
   • The meatballs are ready when they are soft and juicy.
   • Serve immediately.

Notes:

• If the dough is too sticky, wet your hands with water to shape the meatballs more easily.
• Ensure the meatballs are cooked thoroughly before adding them to the tomato sauce.

Ingredient Spotlight

Meat:

• Minced Beef and Pork: Using a combination of beef and pork gives these meatballs a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. The pork adds a bit of fat, which keeps the meatballs juicy.

Seasonings:

• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics are essential for adding depth and flavor to the meatballs.
• Herb Flakes and Paprika: A mix of dried herbs and paprika gives the meatballs a subtle kick and enhances the overall taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor and helps bind the meatballs together.

Tomato Sauce:

• Canned Tomato Sauce: Provides a rich, tomatoey base that pairs perfectly with the meatballs.
• Chicken Stock Cube: Adds an extra layer of flavor and depth to the sauce.
• Sugar and Salt: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the natural flavors.

Cooking Tips

1. Chopping and Sautéing: Finely chop the onions and garlic to ensure they integrate well into the meatballs, providing a uniform flavor throughout. Sautéing them until golden brown helps to mellow their flavors and add sweetness.
2. Soaking the Bread: Soaking the bread in milk before adding it to the meat mixture ensures the meatballs remain tender and moist. Squeeze out some of the milk to avoid making the mixture too wet.
3. Shaping the Meatballs: Wetting your hands with water while shaping the meatballs prevents the mixture from sticking to your hands, making the process easier.
4. Cooking the Meatballs: Ensure that the meatballs are browned on all sides before adding them to the sauce. This helps to seal in the juices and adds a delicious crust to the exterior.

Serving Suggestions

These Juicy Meatballs in Tomato Sauce are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Over Pasta: Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic Italian-American meal.
• With Bread: Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• On Their Own: Serve as an appetizer or main course with a side salad for a lighter option.
• In a Sub: Place the meatballs and sauce in a hoagie roll, top with melted cheese, and enjoy a delicious meatball sub.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
• Protein: High in protein from the beef and pork
• Fat: Contains healthy fats, especially from the pork
• Carbohydrates: Moderate, mainly from the bread and tomato sauce

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes:

• Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
• Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Place a small cube of mozzarella or another cheese in the center of each meatball for a gooey surprise.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meat substitutes and a vegetarian stock cube for a meatless version.

Conclusion

This Juicy Meatballs in Tomato Sauce recipe is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Its rich flavors and tender meatballs make it a family favorite that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy meal at home, these meatballs are a perfect choice. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of homemade cooking with this easy-to-follow recipe.