The perfect meatball recipe secrets have finally been revealed

The best part about cooking is not just the flavour or nutrition, but seeing others enjoy the food you makes it all worth the effort. One great meal to cook for your family is meatballs in tomato sauce. However, sometimes, meatballs can be a bit heavy and dry out which isn’t fun. We’ve uncovered the secret to the perfect meatball recipe. They’re going to become a family favourite once again, so get ready to cook this meal more often.

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The perfect meatball recipe tips

First, off, the secret is not over-mixing your mince and ensuring that you don’t press them too tightly when forming balls. Next, instead of bread in milk, corn flakes ensures that the mixture stays lighter with more air pockets and the meatballs won’t dry-out. You can either use a fresh can of tomatoes or use your favourite homemade tomato and onion sauce recipe. They’re great with pasta or sides like roasted potatoes and a fresh salad. Don’t forget a sprinkling of fresh herbs and parmesan.

ALSO READ: Beef mince pasta bake: Wholesome one-pot family dinner

Unlock the secret to the perfect meatball recipe. Your weeknight dinners will never be the same again and your family will agree.

Last updated on 28 March 2023

The perfect meatball recipe

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Recipe by Irene Muller Course: MainCuisine: South AfricanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

45

minutes

Ingredients

• 500 g 500 mince meat

• 2 2 medium onions (or 1 large onion), finely chopped

• 1 tbsp 1 chopped garlic

• 1 cup 1 finely chopped parsley (250 g)

• 1 1 egg

• 3 3 corn flakes

• toasted bread crumbs

• ½ tSP ½ nutmeg

• 40 ml 40 milk

• olive oil

• 1 tin 1 chopped tomatoes with herbs

• pinch of salt and pepper

Method

• Place the 3 slices of bread in the milk. Add the nutmeg and allow the corn flakes to soak up the milk.
• In a large bowl add the mince, finely chopped onions,  garlic, ½  a cup of chopped parsley and the seasoning.
• Whisk the egg and add it to the mince.
• Break up the corn flakes and add to the mixture as well as any leftover milk.
• Carefully mix with two forks. 
• Using a large spoon or by hand, form the meatballs.
• Sprinkle the bread crumbs and leftover parsley over the meatballs.
• Place a large skillet on medium heat and add olive oil. When heated up, add the meatballs to the skillet and brown them on both sides.
• Add the tin of tomatoes, reduce the heat and cover.  Simmer until the meat is cooked.

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