Elevate Your Weekly Menu with This Easy and Delicious Meatball Recipe!
Are you tired of the same old dinner routine and looking for a recipe to spice things up? Look no further! This easy and delicious meatball recipe is about to become your new go-to dish that you’ll want to make at least three times a week. Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, these meatballs are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your family. Get ready to elevate your weekly menu with this mouthwatering recipe that’s guaranteed to become a household favorite!
Ingredients:
- 200g ground beef
- 1 small egg
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 15g chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 2 cloves of garlic, grated
- Olive oil, for brushing
- 125g sour cream
- 1 tbsp tomato sauce
- 80ml water
- Mozzarella cheese, for topping
- Parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Mashed potato, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, salt, black pepper, paprika, chopped onion, chopped parsley, bread crumbs, and grated garlic.
- Mix the ingredients together until well combined.
- Form the Meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).
- Brush olive oil onto a baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal parts and roll each portion into a meatball.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, tomato sauce, and water until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Arrange the meatballs in the prepared baking pan.
- Pour the sour cream mixture evenly over the meatballs, coating them completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
- After 25 minutes, remove the baking pan from the oven.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top of each meatball.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is golden brown, remove them from the oven.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve the meatballs hot, accompanied by mashed potato or your favorite side dish.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Breadcrumbs Substitute: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can substitute almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for the bread crumbs.
- Sauce Variations: Get creative with the sauce by adding ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, or chili flakes for extra flavor and spice.
- Meat Options: Experiment with different types of ground meat such as turkey, chicken, or pork for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them into balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What can I serve with these meatballs? These meatballs pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or a simple salad.
- Can I freeze these meatballs? Absolutely! Once baked, allow the meatballs to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- How can I make a keto-friendly version of this recipe? To make a keto-friendly version, omit the bread crumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead. Serve the meatballs with a low-carb side dish such as cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s a modified version of the recipe:
- Omit the bread crumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead.
- Serve the meatballs with a low-carb side dish such as cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
With its irresistible combination of tender beef, flavorful sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this easy and delicious meatball recipe is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests on the weekend, these meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, with the option to customize the ingredients and make variations to suit your taste preferences, the possibilities are endless! So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dinner that’s both effortless and utterly delicious!
