Mediterranean Diet Friendly Classic Beef Meatballs

Total time50 min

Prep time20 min

Cook time30 min

Mediterranean Diet Friendly Classic Beef Meatballs

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Ingredients

4 servings

For the meatballs

½ cup plain breadcrumbs
Aiva Products Bread Crumbs
See all
⅓ cup whole milk
Chef's tip
Use the same amount. Whole milk is richer, so a lower-fat milk will make the dish a little less creamy. This matters most in baking and custards, where the extra fat adds richness.
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
Chef's tip
Ground chicken is often leaner than ground beef and can dry out more quickly. When browning it, add a little oil if needed and keep the pan juices unless the recipe says to drain them. Cook just until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
½ lb ground pork
Chef's tip
Ground chicken is often leaner than ground pork and can dry out more quickly. When browning it, add a little oil if needed and keep the pan juices unless the recipe says to drain them. Cook just until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
1 large egg
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried oregano

For searing

2 tbsp olive oil

For the sauce

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For serving

fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)

Instructions

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Stir and let stand for 2 minutes until the breadcrumbs have absorbed the milk and formed a paste.
2
Add the ground beef, ground pork, Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, egg, salt, black pepper, and oregano to the bowl. Using your hands, mix until just combined — stop as soon as no streaks of breadcrumb paste remain; do not overwork the meat.

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