Delicious Meatball Bake in Tomato Sauce

This mouthwatering meatball bake is a comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners. Made with seasoned ground pork, tenderized with cream and bread, these savory meatballs are browned to perfection. They're then simmered in a rich, tangy tomato sauce infused with an array of spices and herbs including thyme, parsley, and celery leaves. Garlic and onion provide a robust flavor while the optional touch of chili adds a hint of heat. The sweetness of honey balances the acidity of tomatoes, creating a well-rounded sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Although it requires some preparation, it is well worth the effort. It's a perfect combination of flavors and textures, resulting in a satisfying and hearty meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

700 g ground pork
3 onions, finely chopped
2 eggs
5 slices of white bread, soaked and squeezed
2 tablespoons sour cream
6 tomatoes, chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
400 ml bell pepper stew (paprikas lečo)
200 ml tomato sauce

Spices and Herbs:

1 pinch of thyme
1 pinch of celery leaves
1 tablespoon honey
1 pinch of parsley
1 pinch of salt
1 chili pepper (optional)

Preparation Time

Total time: Approximately 60 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes in the oven + additional time for simmering

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork with finely chopped onions, eggs, soaked and squeezed bread slices, sour cream, a pinch of salt, and pepper. You can also add your favorite ground meat spices for enhanced flavor.
Form the Meatballs: Mix the ingredients thoroughly and form them into uniform balls.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (about 392°F).
Oven Bake: Place the meatballs on a baking tray and bake them for 25 minutes until they are nicely browned.
Prepare the Sauce: While meatballs are baking, heat a pan over medium heat.
Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped tomatoes, onions, garlic, and the bell pepper stew into the pan.
Add Spices: Stir in the thyme, celery leaves, and parsley for added aroma and flavor.
Sweeten: Add the honey to the sauce for a hint of sweetness.
Balance the Sauce: If the sauce seems too thick, incorporate a bit of tomato sauce until the desired consistency is reached.
Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat, letting all the flavors meld together.
Combine Meat and Sauce: Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully place them into the sauce.
Final Simmer: Cook everything together for another 15 minutes. This allows the meatballs to absorb the sauce, enhancing their flavor.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as per your liking.
Prepare to Serve: Remove the pan from heat once everything is cooked to your preference.
Dish and Garnish: Serve meatballs in the rich tomato sauce, garnishing with a bit more fresh parsley.
Serving Options: Enjoy with your choice of side, such as pasta, rice, or fresh bread.

Tips

Substitutions: Use chicken or turkey for a leaner option instead of pork.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili or omit for a milder dish.
Moisture Tip: Ensure bread is properly soaked and squeezed to retain the ideal moisture level in meatballs.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Protein: 25 g
Fats: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g

Variations

Vegetarian: Swap meat with a plant-based meat substitute.
Low Carb: Serve over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower rice.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with freshly cooked pasta for a classic pairing.
Add a side of Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Best Places

Trattoria da Enzo - Known for its authentic Italian dishes, offering a cozy ambiance for a perfect dinner. Location: Via dei Vascellari, Rome, Italy.
Le Meurice - A fine dining restaurant with a rich selection of French cuisine. Location: 228 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
Bistro Agnes - Features a comforting menu inspired by French classics. Location: 527 SW 12th Ave, Portland, USA.
The Little Meatball Place - Specializes in a variety of meatball dishes with international flavors. Location: 19 Gerard St, Huntington, USA.
Darwin Brasserie - Delightful meals with a view over London's skyline. Location: Sky Garden, 20 Fenchurch St, London, UK.
Carbone - Known for its Italian-American prowess, offering a nostalgic culinary experience. Location: 181 Thompson St, New York, USA.
Osteria Francescana - An innovative take on traditional Italian dishes with a unique touch by the chef. Location: Via Stella, Modena, Italy.
Alinea - An avant-garde dining experience led by creativity and elegance. Location: 1723 North Halsted St, Chicago, USA.
Arzak - Offers a modern twist on Basque cuisine, each dish crafted with precision. Location: Avenida Alcalde José Elosegi, San Sebastián, Spain.
El Celler de Can Roca - Renowned for a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary flavors. Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer, Girona, Spain.