Gratinated meatballs with green peas

Gratinated Meatballs with Green Peas: A Light and Tasty Delicacy

If you are a meatball lover, this dish will bring joy to your table, being a lighter and just as delicious alternative to fried ones. Gratinated meatballs with green peas are a true feast, where the meat perfectly blends with a creamy sauce of sour cream and cheese. Moreover, they are baked, making them an ideal choice for a healthy yet flavorful meal.

Preparing these meatballs is not complicated at all, and I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result. Here’s everything you need to know!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the meatballs:
- 800 g minced meat (mix of beef, turkey, and pork)
- 2 eggs
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 50 g breadcrumbs
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the gratin:
- 300 g sour cream
- 150 g smoked cheese
- 2 eggs
- A bunch of chopped fresh dill

Preparing the Meatballs:

1. Preparing the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, add the minced meat, beaten eggs, crushed garlic, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Mix all the ingredients well with your hands or a spatula until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. It is important that all ingredients combine perfectly for the textures and flavors to meld.

2. Forming the meatballs: Wet your hands with water to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into meatballs of your desired size. If you prefer larger meatballs, feel free to make them a bit bigger, but make sure they cook well inside.

3. Preparing the baking dish: Choose a heat-resistant dish or a Roman pot and grease it with a little butter or oil. If using a Roman pot, it is good to soak it in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent the meatballs from drying out during baking.

Preparing the Gratin Sauce:

1. Beating the eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs well. Add the sour cream and chopped dill, mixing until homogeneous. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a cup of milk to thin it out.

2. Seasoning the sauce: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper to your liking. This step is essential to ensure a balanced flavor.

Baking the Meatballs:

1. Arranging the meatballs: Place the formed meatballs in the prepared dish, making sure to leave a little space between them for even cooking.

2. Adding the sauce: Pour the previously prepared sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well covered.

3. Sprinkling the cheese: Grate the smoked cheese over the sauce, creating a delicious crust that will add an irresistible flavor to the dish.

4. Baking in the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and have a golden crust on top.

Serving and Accompaniment Suggestions:

Once the meatballs are ready, let them cool slightly before portioning. You can serve them as they are or on a bed of sautéed vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or zucchini. These vegetables not only add a splash of color to the plate but also a complementary taste.

For an extra flavor boost, you can also add some lemon slices or a yogurt sauce with herbs to balance the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with chicken, turkey, or even fish, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the meatballs less fatty?
Use lean meat and replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

3. What can I do with leftovers?
The leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated the next day, or they can be added to a salad for a quick lunch.

Nutritional Benefits:

This recipe is rich in protein due to the meat and eggs, while the peas provide valuable fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, the smoked cheese enriches the dish with calcium and an intense flavor. It is a balanced meal that can be enjoyed guilt-free.

Possible Variations:

To add a personal touch, you can experiment with various herbs, such as basil or oregano, or you can replace the peas with other vegetables, such as grated carrots or zucchini. These variations will not only change the flavor but also bring a variety of colors to the plate.

Conclusion:

Gratinated meatballs with green peas are a perfect choice for a family dinner or a festive meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, they will surely impress anyone who tries them. So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a delicious dish that brings smiles and good cheer to the table. Enjoy your meal!