Mouthwatering Minced Meat and Cheese Patties with Tomato Sauce

If you're looking for a delicious yet simple dish that combines rich flavors and textures, these savory minced meat and cheese patties served with a zesty tomato sauce might just be what you need. Made with a blend of beef and pork, these patties are perfectly seasoned and enriched with the delicate taste of grated cheese. The sauce, infused with basil for an aromatic kick, complements the hearty patties wonderfully. Quick to prepare, this dish is ideal for cozy family dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal fuss. The crispy outer layer of the patties gives way to a juicy center, bursting with flavors that make each bite unforgettably satisfying. It's a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to include your favorite herbs or a cheese of your choice. Plus, the tomato sauce serves as a delightful partner to the robust flavors of the patties, adding a tangy and slightly sweet contrast. These patties can be a delightful main course, paired with fresh salads or crusty bread. Dive into this culinary experience and savor the fusion of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

300 g ground beef and pork mix
4 slices of dried bread
1 clove of garlic
100 g grated "Džiugas Delicate" cheese
1/2 onion

Sauce Ingredients

500 ml tomato pulp
8 basil leaves
200 ml warm water
40 ml extra virgin olive oil
1/2 pinch parsley leaves

Preparation Time

Total: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start with the sauce: Heat the olive oil in a pan.
Add onions: Finely dice the onion and sauté it in the heated oil until golden brown.
Incorporate tomato pulp: Once onions are ready, pour in the tomato pulp.
Basil infuses flavor: Add the basil leaves to the sauce.
Season and simmer: Add salt to taste. Pour in the warm water. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over low heat.
Prepare the bread: Soak the slices of bread in water, then thoroughly squeeze out the liquid.
Mix ingredients for patties: In a large bowl, combine the soaked bread, ground meat, minced garlic, parsley, and grated cheese.
Season the meat mixture: Add salt to the meat mixture and mix until well combined.
Form the patties: Shape the meat mixture into apricot-sized balls. Ensure they are packed tightly.
Cook the patties: Carefully drop the patties into the simmering tomato sauce.
Check sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more water.
Cover and cook: Allow the patties to cook under a lid for about 8-10 minutes.
Finish with flavors: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve the dish: Once patties are cooked, remove from heat.
Plating: Serve the patties with a generous ladle of tomato sauce.
Garnishing options: Garnish with extra parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Side options: Pair with a side salad or rustic bread for dipping.
Enjoy the richness: Each bite should be flavorful, enjoy!
Store leftovers: Any leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Reheat properly: Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving again.

Tips

If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can be used, though it won't be as aromatic.
Substitute ground meat with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
To enhance richness, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while simmering.

Variations

Vegetarians can swap out meat for mashed beans or lentils.
Replace the cheese with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version.
Use whole-wheat bread for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Can be enjoyed with garlic bread or over a bed of pasta.

Best Places

Mama's Meatballs - Known for their delicious meatball dishes.
Location: 123 Flavor Street, Rome, Italy.
The Cheese Club - Offers a variety of cheese-infused dishes.
Location: 45 Fromage Ave, Paris, France.
Tasty Tomato Bistro - Renowned for its tomato-based recipes.
Location: 67 Tomato Lane, San Francisco, USA.
Basil & Bites - Specializes in basil gourmet meals.
Location: 32 Green Street, London, UK.
Flavor Fusion - Combines various flavors perfectly.
Location: 90 Spice Road, New Delhi, India.
Olive Essence - Known for their use of quality olive oil.
Location: 23 Olive Blvd, Athens, Greece.
Street Feast - Offers a unique dining experience with street recipes.
Location: 150 Market Square, Bangkok, Thailand.
Herb Central - Infuses dishes with a variety of herbs.
Location: 75 Nature Drive, Istanbul, Turkey.
The Garlic Point - Celebrates the bold flavor of garlic in their dishes.
Location: 98 Aroma Ave, Seoul, South Korea.
Pulp & Platter - Uses fresh pulpy ingredients in meals.
Location: 44 Freshness Street, Sydney, Australia.