Spicy Baked Meatballs

Spicy Oven Meatballs – a healthy and delicious choice for all food lovers! If you’re tired of fried meatballs, this recipe will show you that you can have equally tasty dishes baked in the oven. With a soft texture and a spicy flavor, these meatballs are perfect for a family dinner or to impress your guests. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g minced meat (preferably pork, but you can also use a mix of beef and pork for a more complex flavor)
- 4 medium potatoes (grated on the small grater)
- 2 eggs
- 5 cloves of minced garlic (which can be adjusted according to preferences)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (for an extra kick, adjust the amount to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- A little dried thyme (or herbs de Provence for a more aromatic taste)
- 100 g white breadcrumbs (to create a crispy crust)

Useful tips for ingredients:

To achieve juicy meatballs, choose minced meat with a moderate fat content; this will add moisture and flavor to your dish. Potatoes, besides providing a fine texture, also help keep the meatballs moist. Garlic, a staple ingredient, not only brings an intense flavor but also adds nutritional benefits, being known for its antioxidant properties.

Preparing the meatballs:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes. After washing them, grate them on the small grater. This will help them integrate more easily into the mixture, providing a uniform and tasty result.

2. Mixing the composition: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, grated potatoes, eggs, minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, and dried thyme. Use a spatula or your hands to mix all the ingredients well, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Note: the mixture should be soft, so don't hesitate to adjust the amount of potatoes or eggs if necessary.

3. Forming the meatballs: Wet your hands with a little water to prevent the mixture from sticking. Form meatballs of your desired size, keeping in mind that they will shrink slightly during baking. Roll each meatball in breadcrumbs to achieve a crispy and appetizing crust.

4. Preparing the tray: Place baking paper on a baking tray to prevent sticking. Arrange the meatballs so that there is space between them, allowing air circulation and ensuring even baking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 150°C. Place the tray in the oven and let the meatballs bake for 45 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning on all sides.

Serving and delicious combinations:

These spicy meatballs pair perfectly with pasta and tomato sauce, just as we served them. We recommend making a fresh tomato sauce with basil and garlic, which will perfectly complement the spicy flavors of the meatballs. You can also serve them alongside a green salad with lemon and olive oil dressing for a refreshing contrast.

Interesting variations:

If you want to experiment, you can add crumbled feta cheese to the mixture for a saltier taste and creamy texture. Also, replace the potatoes with grated zucchini for a lighter and equally tasty option. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste – a pinch of cumin or toasted coriander can add an exotic note!

Nutritional information:

Each serving of meatballs contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They are rich in protein due to the pork and eggs, while the potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy. Garlic and spices add not only flavor but also health benefits, being known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken or turkey?
Yes, these meatballs can also be made with chicken or turkey, but you will need to adjust the amount of spices to compensate for the milder flavor of these types of meat.

2. How can I store the meatballs?
The meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan to maintain their crispy texture.

3. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatballs before baking them. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once frozen, you can transfer them to an airtight bag. When you want to prepare them, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Regardless of the occasion, these spicy oven meatballs are an excellent solution for a tasty and healthy meal. So gather your ingredients and let's cook together! I assure you that the result will please you and your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!