Meatballs in Salsa Recipe: A Southern Delight
This Meatballs in Salsa recipe, courtesy of the legendary Mildred “Mama Dip” Council, is a perfect combination of bold flavors and comforting textures, ideal for a cozy brunch or family meal. Mama Dip’s legacy is one of Southern hospitality, and this dish certainly reflects that spirit. If you haven’t yet encountered Mama Dip’s cookbooks, make sure to check them out — they are a true treasure of Southern cooking. With a rich history of soulful recipes, you can bring the taste of the South into your home with this delightful recipe.
Meatballs in Salsa Recipe
Recipe Information
| Recipe Name | Meatballs in Salsa |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 1 hour |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Pork |
| Servings | 5 servings |
| Calories per Serving | 388.6 kcal |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hot salsa | 1 cup |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Ground pork | 1 pound |
| Egg | 1/2 |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Vinegar | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Prepared mustard | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 388.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 24.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 145.8 mg |
| Sodium | 917.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 9.5 g |
| Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sugar | 4.9 g |
| Protein | 32.4 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Sauce: Begin by combining the hot salsa with the tomato sauce in a saucepan. Place the saucepan over low heat and allow the mixture to warm together, stirring occasionally.
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Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, egg, dried thyme, vinegar, and prepared mustard. Use your hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients until they are well incorporated. This will form the base for your meatballs.
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Form the Meatballs: Once the mixture is well combined, begin forming the meatballs. Shape the mixture into 20 small balls, each about 1 inch in diameter. You can use a spoon or your hands to portion the mixture evenly.
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Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a cookie sheet or a baking pan, ensuring that they are spaced out evenly. Bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
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Assemble and Bake the Dish: After baking the meatballs, transfer them to a casserole dish. Pour the heated salsa and tomato sauce mixture over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated. Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
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Finishing Touches: Turn off the oven but leave the casserole inside. Let it rest in the cooling oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the dish to cool slightly before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Serving Suggestions: These meatballs in salsa pair wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve them alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Just bake the meatballs and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply heat the sauce and meatballs together in the oven.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a little extra heat, add more hot salsa or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. You can also experiment with different types of salsa for varying flavor profiles.
This Meatballs in Salsa recipe will soon become a family favorite. The combination of tender pork meatballs with the spicy and tangy salsa sauce is sure to please the whole table. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just enjoying a delicious dinner, this dish is a perfect way to experience the comfort of Southern cooking at its finest. Enjoy!
