Oven Meatballs

These really are not beautiful, is it possible to take a good photo of meat?? But don't worry about looks because these are delicious. I am not a big meat eater, I have pretty high standards when it comes to ground meat. These come highly recommended from Mel's Kitchen Cafe. I am so glad I tried them--they are perfect for my meat eating boys and I enjoyed them too.

These little babies are very versatile. They make a killer Meatball Sub (recipe to come), we just enjoyed them with some fresh pasta and sauce. Just good food. They freeze well and it is easy to make a large batch. What's not to love?

Oven Meatballs

1 cup Panko crumbs

3/4 cup shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese (I do love options)

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup beef or chicken broth (options again)

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

2 eggs, lightly beaten

1 1/2 tablespoons dried oregano

1 1/2 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons pepper

2 teaspoons dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

2 pounds ground beef

In a large bowl mix together all ingredients but the beef. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes. Add the beef and mix gently. Yes, you need to use your hands. I love my disposable kitchen gloves. I can do more with these on!

Line rimed baking sheet with foil and lightly grease the foil. Form into golf ball sized meatballs--I use a cookie scoop, easy. You might need two baking sheets. Place meatballs an inch apart. Bake at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes until cooked through. 

Be creative--use in most anything. Extra meatballs freeze well. Put in a freezer bag. Label and date. Most important--don't forget to use them!

Printable Recipe

Simply Fresh Tomato Sauce

We have had beautiful fall weather in my little part of the world. Temperatures in the 70's and lots of sun mean that our gardens continue to produce. Our neighbor was kind enough to share his bounty. I have a bumper crop of parsley and basil, so this was the perfect dish I just had to make it. This was amazing over pasta, I added a few meatballs and we had a delicious meal.

Simply Fresh Tomato Sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 medium onion. finely chopped
1 small stalk celery including the green top, finely chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley  or 2 teaspoons dried
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried
2 pounds tomatoes, peeled I would also squeeze the seeds out or use a large can of crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon tomato paste
salt and pepper
Heat oil in a large skillet on medium heat, add onion, carrot, celery and parsley. Stir, reduce heat to low, cover skillet and cook for 15-20 stirring occasionally. Add garlic, increase heat and cook for 30 seconds. Add tomatoes, tomato paste and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a low simmer, reduce heat to low and cook uncovered until thickened about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve over pasta, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This is one fresh meal!
Printable Recipe