Oven-baked meatballs

Delicious Baked Meatballs Recipe

Meatballs are a classic dish loved by everyone, from kids to adults. These delicious morsels, cooked with love, have a rich history and are a perfect example of comfort food. Whether you serve them at a family meal or as an appetizer at a party, baked meatballs are an excellent choice. Due to the cooking method, you achieve an intense flavor and a juicy texture without adding too much oil, making them a healthier option.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 6

Here’s how to prepare these delicious and healthy meatballs, step by step:

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg ground meat (beef and pork mix)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 slices of bread (preferably whole grain for added nutrients)
- 50 ml milk
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1-2 tablespoons chili paste (optional, for a spicy flavor)
- Oil for greasing the tray

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by finely chopping the onion and crushing the garlic. These will give your meatballs a special flavor. If using stale bread, soak it in milk to achieve a softer texture.

2. Mixing the composition:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the onion, garlic, soaked bread (squeezed of excess liquid), chopped parsley, eggs, and spices (salt, pepper, thyme, chili paste). Mix well with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3. Resting the composition:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will help firm up the ingredients and allow the flavors to meld.

4. Shaping the meatballs:
After the mixture has rested in the fridge, take the bowl out and, with wet hands, form small balls or shape the meatballs into discs. It's recommended not to make them too large for even baking.

5. Preparing the tray:
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Grease a tray with oil, ensuring it is well-coated to prevent the meatballs from sticking.

6. Baking the meatballs:
Place the meatballs in the tray, leaving a small space between them. Bake them in the upper part of the oven for 30 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy. You can turn the meatballs halfway through for even browning.

Serving suggestions

Baked meatballs can be served alongside a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes. You can also accompany them with delicious sauces, such as dill yogurt sauce or spicy tomato sauce. Another option is to use them in sandwiches, with a slice of fresh bread and crunchy vegetables.

Interesting variations

- Cheese meatballs: Add diced feta or mozzarella cheese to the meat mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
- Vegetarian meatballs: Replace the meat with a combination of chopped mushrooms, quinoa, and grated vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Sweet-spicy meatballs: Prepare a sauce from honey, soy sauce, and chili for glazing before serving.

Nutritional benefits

Baked meatballs made from beef and pork are an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle development. Adding fresh vegetables, such as parsley, not only enhances the flavor but also provides an important intake of vitamins and minerals. The whole grain bread used in the mixture contributes to fiber intake.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use chicken meat? Yes, you can use ground chicken for a lighter version of the recipe.
- How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the tray? Make sure the tray is well-greased with oil, and optionally, you can use parchment paper.
- Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze raw or baked meatballs, ensuring to wrap them well to prevent excessive freezing.

Baked meatballs are not only a tasty dish but also a great way to bring family and friends together. So, don't hesitate to make them and share the joy of cooking! Discover the magic of simple recipes and add a touch of love to every meal!

 Ingredients: 1 kg minced meat (beef and pork) 2 eggs 1 onion 3 cloves of garlic 2 slices of bread 50 ml milk 1 bunch of parsley salt, pepper, thyme, hot pepper paste

 Tags:  meatballs ground meat garlic