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Savory Christmas Eve Meatballs for Your Cozy Holiday Feast Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 90 reviews

These Savory Christmas Eve Meatballs combine a flavorful blend of ground beef and pork with a rich homemade tomato sauce, making them the perfect cozy dish for your holiday feast. Browned to perfection and simmered slowly in a robust sauce, these meatballs are garnished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, ideal for serving alongside crusty bread, pasta, or polenta.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter dish)
  • 1 lb ground pork (or ground chicken for a leaner option)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or gluten-free for dietary needs)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (roasted garlic for milder flavor)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (or fresh basil)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil
  • 1/2 cup extra Parmesan cheese
  • Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, fresh parsley, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, aiming for about 18 total. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet ensuring they are spaced apart to prevent sticking.
  3. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for 2-3 minutes each to develop a flavorful crust. Transfer browned meatballs to a plate and set aside.
  4. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add diced onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
  5. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
  6. Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the sauce flavors.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish the meatballs with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread, pasta, or polenta for a complete cozy holiday meal.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter or leaner meatball option.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten-free diets.
  • Roasted garlic can be used instead of raw minced garlic for a milder flavor.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
  • These meatballs also freeze well; cook fully, cool, and freeze individually on a tray before storing in an airtight container.

Keywords: Christmas meatballs, holiday meatballs, savory meatballs, homemade tomato sauce, Italian meatballs, cozy holiday dinner

Find it online: https://yumwithmia.com/savory-christmas-eve-meatballs-for-your-cozy-holiday-feast-recipe/