Oven-baked meatballs

Oven Meatballs: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the savory world of meatballs! These delicious oven-baked meatballs, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, are perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests at a party. Over time, meatballs have become a beloved dish in many cultures, often associated with moments of conviviality and joy. Whether you enjoy them plain, with a flavorful sauce, or alongside various sides, meatballs are always an excellent choice.

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g pork
- 250 g beef
- 1 medium potato
- 2 eggs
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt, to taste
- A few sprigs of fresh dill

Ingredient tips:
- Choose fresh meat: The pork and beef should be of high quality. Fresh meat will make the meatballs tastier and juicier.
- The potato: This adds a pleasant texture and helps retain moisture in the meatballs. Choose a starchy potato for the best results.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic for an intense flavor. If you love strong flavors, feel free to add an extra clove or two.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by chopping the pork and beef using a meat grinder. This will ensure a uniform and fine texture for the mixture. If you have a family recipe for ground meat, feel free to add your favorite ingredients.

2. Grating the vegetables: Peel the potato and cut it into large cubes. Then, use the same grinder to turn it into a paste. Repeat this process with the garlic. These two ingredients will add flavor and moisture to the meatballs.

3. Chopping the dill: Wash the dill under cold running water and chop it finely. This will provide a fresh fragrance and an unmistakable flavor to the mixture.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the ground meat, potato, garlic, chopped dill, beaten eggs, thyme, rosemary, and salt to taste. Use your hands to mix everything very well until the mixture becomes homogeneous.

5. Chilling the mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. This will help firm up the texture and enhance the flavors.

6. Preheating the oven: While the mixture is chilling, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Preheating the oven is essential for achieving a golden and crispy crust.

7. Forming the meatballs: Wet your hands well to avoid sticking. Shape the meatballs into small spheres, about 3-4 cm in diameter. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to bake evenly.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the meatballs are golden and crispy. If you want a browner crust, you can activate the grill function in the last 5 minutes of baking.

9. Serving: The meatballs are served hot, alongside garlic sauce or with any side of your choice. A fresh salad or mashed potatoes are excellent choices to complete the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use only pork or only beef?
- Of course! You can adapt the recipe according to your preferences. The meatballs will have a different taste, but they will be just as delicious.

2. How can I store leftover meatballs?
- Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan.

3. Can I freeze the meatballs?
- Absolutely! Unbaked meatballs can be frozen. Place them on a tray, freeze for a few hours, then transfer them to an airtight container. When you want to cook them, there is no need to thaw; you can bake them directly from the freezer, keeping in mind that the baking time will be slightly longer.

Possible variations:
- Experiment with spices! Adding chili or paprika can give a spicy flavor.
- Try adding grated cheese to the mixture for a creamy surprise inside.

Delicious combinations:
Oven meatballs pair perfectly with a variety of sides, such as:
- Mashed potatoes with butter and sour cream
- A fresh vegetable salad with lemon dressing
- Rice with vegetables or a vegetable pie

These oven meatballs are not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to bring the family together around the table. Experiment with the ingredients, customize the recipe to your taste, and don’t hesitate to share these moments of culinary joy with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!