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These baked pork meatballs in tomato sauce are a hearty, flavorful dish that brings comfort to any meal. The tender, juicy meatballs are made with ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of aromatic herbs. They are baked in a rich, homemade tomato sauce that adds depth and sweetness. A perfect family dinner, these meatballs are simple to prepare and always satisfying.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

500g (1.1 lbs) ground pork
1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing for tender meatballs.
Shape the mixture into 20 small to medium-sized meatballs and place them evenly in the baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, olive oil, and chili flakes if using. Pour this sauce evenly over the meatballs.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.
Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a slightly caramelized top. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrients

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 4

The Beauty of Ground Pork in Meatballs

Ground pork is the perfect meat choice for making meatballs. It offers a rich, savory flavor and a tenderness that can sometimes be lacking in leaner meats like turkey or chicken. Pork’s natural fat content helps to keep the meatballs juicy and flavorful, ensuring that they do not dry out during cooking. The fat in the pork also contributes to the soft and tender texture of the meatballs, allowing them to hold together without being tough or dense.

Using ground pork also allows for a more traditional flavor profile in the meatballs, which pairs beautifully with the tomato sauce. The slightly sweet and fatty nature of the pork contrasts perfectly with the acidity and tanginess of the tomato sauce, creating a well-balanced and satisfying dish.

Aromatic Herbs and Seasonings for Flavor

The flavor of these pork meatballs is enhanced by a blend of aromatic herbs and seasonings, making each bite a burst of savory goodness. Fresh garlic and onion form the base of the seasoning, infusing the meatballs with depth and complexity. Garlic adds an unmistakable richness, while the onion brings a slight sweetness that complements the pork.

The addition of dried oregano and fresh parsley further elevates the flavor profile. Oregano brings a warm, earthy taste, while parsley adds a touch of brightness and freshness to the meatballs. The salt and pepper season the meatballs perfectly, ensuring that they are flavorful without being overpowering. The key is balancing the herbs so that each one shines through without overshadowing the others.

The Importance of Breadcrumbs and Parmesan Cheese

Breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese are essential ingredients in this recipe, not only for flavor but also for texture. The breadcrumbs act as a binder, helping to hold the meatballs together without making them too dense. They absorb the moisture from the pork, keeping the meatballs moist and tender as they bake. Breadcrumbs also provide a subtle crunch, adding texture to the meatballs when combined with the tender pork.

Parmesan cheese, on the other hand, adds a nutty, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the meatballs. The cheese melts into the meat mixture, giving the meatballs an extra richness. Additionally, the umami quality of Parmesan helps to bring out the natural flavors of the pork, making the meatballs even more delicious.

Homemade Tomato Sauce for Richness and Depth

What truly sets this dish apart is the homemade tomato sauce. The sauce is made from canned crushed tomatoes, which provide a rich and slightly tangy base, along with a tablespoon of tomato paste to intensify the flavor. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded sauce that is both sweet and savory. Olive oil is added to give the sauce a smooth texture and a hint of richness, while the optional chili flakes introduce a touch of heat for those who like a bit of spice.

The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful sauce that is perfect for baking the meatballs in. As the meatballs cook in the sauce, they absorb the flavors, becoming even more tender and juicy. The sauce also thickens and becomes more concentrated, making it a perfect complement to the pork meatballs.

The Benefits of Baking Meatballs

Baking meatballs instead of frying them offers several advantages. First, baking is a healthier cooking method, as it allows excess fat to drain away from the meatballs while still keeping them moist. When frying, the meatballs are submerged in oil, which can make them greasy and less appetizing. Baking also ensures that the meatballs cook evenly, allowing for a consistent texture throughout.

Additionally, baking the meatballs in the sauce gives them a chance to soak up the flavors, making them even more flavorful. The sauce thickens as it cooks, creating a rich, savory base that the meatballs absorb as they roast. This method also helps the meatballs retain their shape and prevents them from becoming overcooked or falling apart, which can sometimes happen with frying.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Pork Meatballs

These baked pork meatballs in tomato sauce are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. One of the most popular methods is to serve them over a bed of pasta, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne. The meatballs and sauce coat the pasta beautifully, creating a comforting and filling meal. The tender meatballs and rich tomato sauce pair perfectly with the al dente texture of pasta, making it a classic combination that never goes out of style.

For a lighter option, the meatballs can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad. The freshness of the vegetables helps balance the richness of the meatballs and sauce, providing a well-rounded meal. For a more substantial meal, you can also serve the meatballs on a sub roll, topped with melted mozzarella cheese to create a delicious meatball sub.

Making This Dish Ahead of Time

One of the great advantages of this dish is that it can be made ahead of time. The meatballs can be prepared and baked earlier in the day, then stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or for entertaining guests. Simply reheat the meatballs in the sauce before serving, and they will still be tender and flavorful.

The dish can also be frozen for future use. After baking, allow the meatballs to cool, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in the sauce before serving.

Nutritional Benefits of Pork Meatballs

While pork meatballs are certainly a comfort food, they also offer a number of nutritional benefits. Ground pork is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It also provides important vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, which are important for energy production and overall health. The addition of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese contributes carbohydrates and calcium, further enriching the nutritional profile of the dish.

Tomato sauce, the base of the dish, is rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. The sauce also provides vitamin C and potassium, which support immune function and heart health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, baked pork meatballs in tomato sauce are a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The tender meatballs, made with ground pork and a blend of aromatic herbs, are baked in a rich, homemade tomato sauce that adds depth and sweetness to the dish. This recipe is easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and offers versatility in serving options. Whether paired with pasta, served in a sandwich, or enjoyed with a side of vegetables, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

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