Jamie's Mighty Meatball Bake
Recipe Overview
Overview
This Mighty Meatball Bake is a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, combining lean minced beef with lentils for added nutrition and sustainability. The use of lentils not only cuts down on meat but also boosts the fiber content, making it a smart choice for health-conscious families. The preparation is straightforward, and the result is a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.
The meatballs are seasoned simply with salt and pepper, allowing the natural flavors to shine through. Adding a touch of pesto gives them a unique flavor profile that elevates the dish. As they bake in the oven, the aroma fills the kitchen, promising a comforting meal ahead.
Serving this dish with crispy bread, pasta, or rice makes it versatile for any occasion. The crispy exterior of the meatballs contrasts beautifully with the tender interior, creating a delightful texture. This recipe is not just about feeding the family; it’s about enjoying the process of cooking and sharing a meal together. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Tip: Using a mix of lean minced beef and lentils is better for the planet and your pocket.
Add 250 grams of lean minced beef and a tin of drained lentils to the food processor.
Season with black pepper and salt.
Add 75 grams or two slices of wholemeal bread to the mixture.
Add a teaspoon of pesto to the mixture.
Tip: You can swap pesto for different spices to customize the flavor.
Blend the mixture for about 20 seconds.
Shape the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball.
Press the stalk of the peppers and tear them into the pan to blister.
Tip: Keep your hands moist while shaping meatballs for a smooth finish.
Add blistered peppers to the middle of the pan.
Add olive oil to the pan.
Add the meatballs to the pan and let them get golden and crispy.
Use your hands to break up plum tomatoes and add them to the pan.
Fill the tomato tin about 3/4 full with water and add it to the pan.
Tip: Grate Parmesan on top for a beautiful crispy crust.
Tip: You can serve the dish with rice, pasta, or bread for versatility.
Tip: Incorporate leftover vegetables like carrots or onions for added nutrition.
Preheat the oven to 180° C (350° F).
Serve a portion of the meatball bake.
Add dollops of pesto and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Rolled Oats
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Nutritional Yeast
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Using lentils in meatballs increases fiber content and reduces meat usage, making it a healthier option.
- •Blistering peppers before adding them to the dish enhances their flavor and adds a smoky element.
- •The combination of beef and lentils provides a balanced source of protein.
- •Pesto can be substituted with various spices or herbs to customize the flavor of the meatballs.
