Beef Meatballs in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
In short: Tender beef meatballs browned in a skillet and simmered in a smooth, smoky roasted red pepper and tomato sauce, good over rice or mashed potatoes. It takes about 1 h 5 min in total and makes 4 servings.
- Prep
- 25 min
- Cook
- 40 min
- Total
- 1 h 5 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Calories
- 410 kcal
Meatballs do not have to come with spaghetti. This version simmers them in a sauce of roasted red peppers, tomato and smoked paprika, blended until silky, which gives a sweet, gently smoky coating. The meatballs are soft thanks to a quick soak of breadcrumbs in milk, and browning them first adds flavor to the sauce. Jarred roasted peppers make it quick. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, with a green salad.
Instructions
- Stir the breadcrumbs and milk together in a large bowl and let stand for 5 minutes. Add the egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper and paprika, then add the beef and mix gently until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into about 20 balls, each about 4 cm (1 1/2 inches) wide.
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in two batches for 4 to 5 minutes each, turning, then move them to a plate. They will not be cooked through yet.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the oil for the sauce. Cook the onion for 5 minutes until soft, then add the garlic for 1 minute.
- Add the roasted peppers, passata, paprika, salt and honey and simmer for 8 minutes. Blend with an immersion blender until smooth, or carefully in a countertop blender, then return to the pan.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce, cover and simmer on low for 12 to 15 minutes, turning once, until they read 71°C (160°F). Scatter with herbs and serve.
Tips
- No jarred peppers? Roast 3 large red bell peppers at 230°C (450°F) for 30 minutes, peel them and use them instead.
- The meatballs freeze well in the sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Questions and answers
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes. Bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 15 to 18 minutes on a lined tray, then add them to the simmering sauce for 5 minutes.
Can I use pork or turkey instead of beef?
Yes. A mix of beef and pork keeps the meatballs juicy. Turkey works but needs a little extra oil or an extra spoon of milk.
What do I serve with these meatballs?
Rice, mashed potatoes, polenta, noodles or crusty bread all work. A cucumber or leaf salad keeps the plate balanced.
How long does it take to make Beef Meatballs in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce?
About 1 h 5 min in total: 25 min of preparation and 40 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Beef Meatballs in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce?
About 410 kcal per serving, with 28 g of protein, 20 g of carbohydrates and 24 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 410 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
| Sodium | 1050 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
