Meatballs and Sauce Recipe 🍝
If you’re craving a hearty yet simple dish for lunch or a snack, these spicy meatballs simmered in a savory sauce are sure to hit the spot. Bursting with flavors of pork, garlic, and a hint of spice, this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3/4 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup salsa
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). |
| 2 | Combine ground beef, ground pork, salsa, egg, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. |
| 3 | Shape the mixture into 1-1/2-inch balls, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. |
| 4 | Place the meatballs on a foil-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one to prevent sticking. |
| 5 | Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned. |
| 6 | Remove the meatballs from the oven and drain them well on a paper towel to remove any excess grease. |
| 7 | Meanwhile, in a large frying pan, heat the ketchup, brown sugar, and additional salsa over medium heat. Stir the sauce ingredients together until well combined. |
| 8 | Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce in the frying pan, tossing them gently to coat evenly. |
| 9 | Simmer the meatballs in the sauce, covered, for approximately 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. |
| 10 | Once the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat and serve hot. |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 564.3
- Fat: 36.8g
- Saturated Fat: 13.9g
- Cholesterol: 184.9mg
- Sodium: 947.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 17.8g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugar: 10.3g
- Protein: 39.4g
Recipe Notes:
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness by using mild, medium, or hot salsa according to your preference.
- Make-Ahead: These meatballs can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking. Simply shape the meat mixture into balls and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Serve with Sides: Pair these meatballs with your favorite side dishes such as pasta, rice, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Freeze for Later: These meatballs also freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese over the meatballs before serving for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
With its simple preparation and bold flavors, this Meatballs and Sauce recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, as a snack, or as part of a larger meal, it’s guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Enjoy! 🍽️
