Baked meatballs

Oven-baked meatballs: a delicious and healthy recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4 (approximately 16 meatballs)

When it comes to simple yet extremely tasty dishes, oven-baked meatballs are at the top of many people's preferences. This recipe is not only delicious but also a healthier choice, as baking instead of frying significantly reduces the amount of fat. Moreover, the ingredients are accessible, and the preparation is quick, making this dish a favorite in the kitchen.

Necessary ingredients:
- 700 g mixed minced meat (pork and beef or just beef)
- 1 medium onion
- 1/2 head of garlic (about 4-5 cloves)
- 2 slices of bread (ideally, older bread that absorbs moisture well)
- 1 medium potato
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste

Advantages of the ingredients:
Minced meat is an excellent source of protein, while onion and garlic bring not only flavor but also nutritional benefits, having antioxidant properties. The potato adds a pleasant texture and is a good source of carbohydrates, while parsley is full of vitamins.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling and washing the onion. You can chop it finely using a meat grinder or a grater. If you want a finer texture, the grater is a good choice.

2. Garlic:
Peel the garlic cloves and crush them with a knife or a garlic press to release the intense aroma.

3. Bread and potato:
Soak the two slices of bread in cold water for a few minutes, then crumble them well. Peel the potato, wash it, and grate it on a fine grater.

4. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the minced meat, onion, garlic, grated potato, and crumbled bread. Melt and chop the fresh parsley and add it to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Adding the eggs:
Crack the two eggs over the mixture and use your hands to combine all the ingredients until well blended. This is an important step to achieve well-bound meatballs.

6. Forming the meatballs:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Use a spoon or your hands to form meatballs of your desired size (approximately the size of a golf ball) and place them on the tray, leaving a little space between them for even baking.

7. Baking:
Place the tray in the oven and let the meatballs bake for 35-40 minutes. Halfway through, you can turn them for even browning, but it is not necessary; they will cook well without being turned.

8. Serving:
Once the meatballs are cooked (when they turn golden and crispy on the outside), take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They can be served warm, alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt and garlic sauce.

Serving suggestions:
Oven-baked meatballs go wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or a vegetable salad. You can also add a tomato sauce or a yogurt sauce with dill for an extra flavor boost.

Possible variations:
To give the recipe a twist, you can add spices like paprika or cumin to the mixture. You can also experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter version. If you are vegetarian, you can replace the meat with lentils or boiled and crushed chickpeas.

Nutritional information:
One serving of meatballs contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the type of meat used. They are a good source of protein, vitamins, and fiber, especially when served with fresh vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken or turkey? Yes, these are excellent options for a lighter version.
- How can I store the meatballs? You can keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze them for later use.
- Can I add cheese to the mixture? Absolutely! Feta or mozzarella cheese added inside the meatballs will provide wonderful texture and flavor.

Oven-baked meatballs are not only a simple recipe but also a perfect way to bring the family together for a delicious meal. Enjoy every bite and savor the enticing aromas that will fill your kitchen!