Imagine biting into a perfectly crafted meatball, where the crispy exterior gives way to a molten cheese center, all nestled in a vibrant, herb-infused tomato sauce. These meatballs are more than just a meal – they’re a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy to your dinner table, combining the hearty richness of beef with the creamy surprise of melted cheese.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 100g (3.5 oz) melting cheese (mozzarella, Emmental, or Gouda), cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Tomato Sauce
- 500ml (2 cups) tomato puree
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano or thyme
- 1 pinch of sugar
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, grated onion, chopped garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Form Cheese-Filled Meatballs Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of cheese in the center, then carefully close and roll the meat around the cheese, forming a tight meatball. Repeat until all meat is used.
- Brown the Meatballs Heat a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Carefully place the meatballs in the pan and brown them on all sides, creating a delicious golden crust. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and garlic until soft. Add tomato puree, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine and Finish Gently place the browned meatballs into the tomato sauce. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through completely.
Nutrition and Serving
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400
Why These Meatballs Are Nutritious and Delicious
These meatballs aren’t just a tasty meal – they’re packed with nutritional benefits. Lean ground beef provides high-quality protein, while the melted cheese adds calcium and additional protein. The tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its potential health benefits. By using fresh herbs and minimal processing, this recipe offers a balanced, wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Pro Tip: Serve with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce for a complete meal.