Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (you can use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through.
3. Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Assemble and Bake:
- Once the meatballs are done baking, add them to the simmering sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15 minutes.
5. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
Enjoy your homemade baked meatballs with spicy bolognese sauce and melted mozzarella cheese!
