Meatballs in Garlic Tomato and Mint Sauce

Transform your dinner into a showstopper with these irresistibly juicy Meatballs in Garlic Tomato and Mint Sauce! This recipe combines the rich flavors of tender beef and pork meatballs with a slow-simmered tomato sauce, infused with fragrant garlic, a touch of sweetness, and fresh mint for a surprising twist. Hints of Parmesan and parsley elevate the meatballs, while a quick browning technique locks in their succulence. The final flourish of fresh mint leaves adds a burst of herbal brightness that pairs beautifully with the robust tomato base. Perfect served over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread, this hearty and comforting dish is a must-try for an elevated weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 g Ground beef
• 250 g Ground pork
• 100 g Breadcrumbs
• 60 ml Milk
• 1 large Egg
• 6 whole Garlic cloves
• 15 g Fresh mint leaves
• 15 g Fresh parsley
• 40 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1.5 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black pepper
• 3 tbsp Olive oil
• 800 g Crushed tomatoes
• 240 ml Vegetable broth
• 0.5 tsp Sugar
• 0.25 tsp Chili flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Mix thoroughly but gently with your hands until well combined, taking care not to overmix.

Step 3

Form the meat mixture into small, uniform meatballs, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a tray or plate.

Step 4

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning gently to brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the browned meatballs and set aside on a plate.

Step 5

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Mince and sauté 4 garlic cloves until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 6

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, remaining 0.5 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Step 7

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover with a lid and simmer gently over low heat for 25-30 minutes, occasionally stirring and spooning the sauce over the meatballs.

Step 8

Finely chop the fresh mint leaves and stir them into the sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a fresh, aromatic finish.

Step 9

Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh mint or parsley if desired. Pair with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2149.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3226.8

Total Fat 213.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 73.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.7g
Cholesterol 821.9mg	0%
Sodium 7097.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 146.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.7g	0%
Total Sugars 40.4g
Protein 200.9g	0%

Vitamin D 81.0IU	0%
Calcium 979.1mg	0%
Iron 25.2mg	0%
Potassium 3793.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 58.0%

Protein: 24.3%

Carbs: 17.7%