Sun Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs Recipe

Excite your taste buds with these sun-dried tomato cheesy meatballs. This recipe perfectly fuses beef and pork mince with parmesan cheese, aromatic herbs and semi-dried tomatoes for a savory delight that is sure to leave you wanting more. Whether it's for a fancy dinner party or a comforting weeknight meal, these meatballs are a sure hit.

Photos of Sun Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs Recipe

This recipe uses a few unique ingredients that you may not typically have in your pantry. Semi-dried tomatoes are a key ingredient that you can find in the preserved vegetables section of most supermarkets. These tomatoes are partially dehydrated but still retain a bit of juiciness, providing a nice textural contrast and intense tomato flavor. Almond flour is used as a gluten-free alternative to bread crumbs to hold the meatballs together, and can be found in the baking aisle. Bocconcini balls are bite-sized mozzarella cheeses that melt beautifully, and can be found in the deli or cheese section.

Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs

Beef mince: This is the base of the meatball that provides the savory, hearty flavor.

Pork mince: It's mixed with the beef to give the meatballs a juicier texture.

Egg: This acts as a binder to hold all the ingredients together.

Almond flour: A gluten-free alternative to bread crumbs or regular flour that helps hold the meatballs together.

Semi-dried tomatoes: They add a concentrated tomato flavor and a nice chewy texture.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to the meatballs.

Garlic: Provide an aromatic base to the meatballs.

Tomato paste: Enhances the tomato flavor in the meatballs.

Oregano: Adds a slightly bitter, pungent flavor.

Basil: Complements the tomato flavor with its sweet, minty taste.

Oil: Used to cook the meatballs and provide a nice browning.

Salt and pepper: Seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.

Tomato pasta sauce: Used in the sauce for extra tomato flavor and to coat the meatballs.

Bocconcini balls: Melted on top of the meatballs for a cheesy finish.

One reader, Gisele Emery says:

This sun-dried tomato cheesy meatballs recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The meatballs are juicy and the cheesy topping adds a delicious twist. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty and flavorful meal. I highly recommend it!

Gisele Emery

Techniques Required for Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs Recipe

How to prepare the meatballs: Combine the beef mince, pork mince, egg, almond flour, semi-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and basil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then shape the mixture into 12 meatballs.

How to cook the meatballs: Heat oil in a non-stick oven-proof pan or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally to brown on all sides.

How to make the sauce: Heat the reserved semi-dried tomato oil in the pan. Add the tomato pasta sauce and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.

How to finish the meatballs: Return the meatballs to the pan, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and allow to simmer, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes or until the meatballs have cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

How to melt the cheese: Preheat the oven to the grill (or broil) setting on medium heat halfway through the cooking time. When the meatballs are ready, arrange the bocconcini slices over the meatballs and place the pan into the oven. Grill/broil until the cheese has melted.

How To Make Sun Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs

These cheesy meatballs have pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. They are seasoned with various herbs and spices then cooked in a rich and cheesy tomato sauce.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Meatballs:

500gbeef mince
500gpork mince,or extra beef mince
1egg,lightly whisked
½cupalmond flour,or ⅓ breadcrumbs
150gsemi-dried tomatoes,drained and oil reserved
1/2cupparmesan cheese,grated
4clovesgarlic,crushed
4tbsptomato paste
1tbsporegano,freshly chopped
1tbspbasil,freshly chopped
1tbspoil
1tosalt and pepper,to taste, about tbsp

For Sauce:

reserved sun dried tomato oil
840gtomato pasta sauce,or tomato soup
180glarge bocconcini balls,sliced

Instructions

Combine mince, egg and almond flour, tomatoes drained of oil (reserve oil), cheese, garlic, paste, oregano and basil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Shape into 12 meatballs.
Heat oil in a non stick oven proof pan or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs, in batches for 3 to 4 minutes while occasionally turning to brown on all sides.
Heat reserved semi-dried tomatoes oil in pan. Add the tomato sauce (or soup). Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
Return meatballs to pan; bring to the boil; reduce heat to low and allow to simmer, covered for 15 to 20 minutes or until meatballs have cooked through and sauce has thickened.
Meanwhile, preheat oven to grill (or broil) settings on medium heat halfway through cooking time. When meatballs are ready, arrange the bocconcini slices over the meatballs and place pan into the oven. Grill/broil until cheese has melted.

Nutrition

Calories: 372.52kcal
Fat: 27.07g
Saturated Fat: 9.92g
Trans Fat: 0.50g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.22g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.95g
Carbohydrates: 9.17g
Fiber: 2.41g
Sugar: 5.46g
Protein: 22.73g
Cholesterol: 90.38mg
Sodium: 571.90mg
Calcium: 196.95mg
Potassium: 619.89mg
Iron: 2.29mg
Vitamin A: 82.85µg
Vitamin C: 12.72mg

Helpful Technique for Making Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs

When shaping your meatballs, try to keep them all the same size. This ensures that they all cook evenly and at the same time. If some meatballs are larger than others, they may require more cooking time and could result in some meatballs being overcooked while others are still raw in the middle. A good tip is to use a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop to portion out the meat mixture. This will help you get consistently sized meatballs.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Cheesy Meatballs

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and refrigerate it. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly and evenly chop the semi-dried tomatoes and garlic for the meatballs.

Multi-task: While the meatballs are simmering, use that time to prepare any side dishes or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather all the ingredients and kitchen tools needed for the recipe to avoid last-minute searches and save time.

Batch cooking: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.

Substitute Ingredients For Sun Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs Recipe

beef mince - Substitute with lamb mince: Lamb mince has a similar texture and flavor to beef mince, and it will work well in the meatballs recipe.
pork mince - Substitute with chicken mince: Chicken mince is a lean alternative to pork mince and will provide a lighter flavor to the meatballs.
almond flour - Substitute with breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for almond flour to bind the meatballs and provide a similar texture.
semi-dried tomatoes - Substitute with sun-dried tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes can be used as a substitute for semi-dried tomatoes to maintain the rich tomato flavor in the meatballs.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese has a similar salty and nutty flavor to parmesan and can be used as a substitute in the meatballs.
tomato paste - Substitute with sundried tomato paste: Sun-dried tomato paste can add a deeper, richer flavor compared to regular tomato paste.
bocconcini balls - Substitute with mozzarella balls: Mozzarella balls can be used as a substitute for bocconcini to provide a creamy and melty texture in the sauce.

Presenting Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs

Elevate the meatballs: Gently arrange the meatballs on a bed of creamy polenta or a rustic tomato and basil sauce, allowing each meatball to stand out as a star of the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped basil or oregano to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Create a stunning cheese pull: When serving, gently pull the meatballs apart to showcase the gooey, melted bocconcini cheese, creating an enticing visual and sensory experience.
Serve in individual cast iron skillets: For a rustic and charming presentation, serve the meatballs in individual cast iron skillets, adding a touch of warmth and homeliness to the dish.
Accompany with artisanal bread: Serve the meatballs with slices of warm, crusty artisanal bread, allowing guests to soak up the delicious sauce and savor every last bit of flavor.
Add a drizzle of sun-dried tomato oil: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil over the meatballs for a glossy finish and an extra burst of rich, savory flavor.
Present on a wooden serving board: For a rustic and inviting presentation, arrange the meatballs on a wooden serving board, accompanied by small bowls of extra parmesan cheese and fresh basil for guests to help themselves.

Essential Tools for Making Cheesy Meatballs

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently mixing meatball ingredients and achieving a consistent texture.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the meatball ingredients thoroughly. It provides a spacious and sturdy container for mixing the meats, seasonings, and other components together.
Non-stick oven-proof pan or cast iron skillet: A non-stick oven-proof pan or cast iron skillet is ideal for browning the meatballs on the stovetop before transferring them to the oven. It ensures even heat distribution and prevents the meatballs from sticking.
Oven: The oven is used for grilling or broiling the meatballs to melt the bocconcini cheese. It provides high, direct heat to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
Spatula: A spatula is handy for flipping and turning the meatballs while browning them in the pan. It allows for easy maneuvering and prevents the meatballs from breaking apart.
Knife: A knife is necessary for mincing the garlic and chopping the semi-dried tomatoes to incorporate into the meatball mixture. It's essential for precise cutting and preparation of ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately portion and measure the ingredients, such as almond flour, tomato paste, and seasonings, ensuring the right balance of flavors and textures in the meatballs.
Grill or broil settings: The grill or broil settings in the oven are utilized to melt the bocconcini cheese over the meatballs, adding a deliciously gooey and golden finish to the dish.

Storing and Freezing Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs

Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them for a minute or two.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag for up to 2-3 months. To prevent the meatballs from sticking together, you can flash freeze them first by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer the frozen meatballs to a container or bag for storage.
When ready to enjoy the frozen meatballs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, place the thawed meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and heat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.
If you have leftover tomato sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, or freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When reheating the meatballs, you can add the sauce to the pan or microwave dish for a quick and easy meal.

How To Reheat Leftover Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover meatballs in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the meatballs while preventing them from drying out.
For a quicker option, reheat the meatballs in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to stir the meatballs halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you want to reheat the meatballs and sauce together, place them in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the meatballs and sauce are heated through. This method allows the flavors to meld together and can help to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
For a crispy exterior, reheat the meatballs in a skillet or on a griddle. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter over medium heat and add the meatballs. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the meatballs. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the meatballs in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method is quick and can help to restore the texture of the meatballs.

Interesting Fact About Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs

The meatballs in this recipe are a great source of protein, with the combination of beef and pork providing a flavorful and filling dish. Additionally, the use of semi-dried tomatoes adds a unique twist to the traditional meatball recipe, infusing the dish with a rich and tangy flavor. The bocconcini cheese topping adds a creamy and indulgent touch, making this dish a delicious and satisfying meal.

Is This Meatball Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. The combination of beef and pork mince may be more expensive than using just one type of meat. However, the use of almond flour instead of breadcrumbs can be a cost-effective alternative. The addition of semi-dried tomatoes and bocconcini balls may increase the overall cost. Considering the quantity and quality of ingredients, this recipe could be rated a 7. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $35-$40.

Are Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs Healthy or Unhealthy?

The sun-dried tomato cheesy meatballs recipe is a delicious and indulgent dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

High fat content: The recipe uses a combination of beef and pork mince, which can be high in saturated fat. Additionally, the parmesan cheese and bocconcini add to the overall fat content.
Processed ingredients: The recipe includes processed items like sun-dried tomatoes and tomato pasta sauce, which may contain added sugars, salt, and preservatives.
Limited vegetables: While the recipe incorporates some tomato-based ingredients, it lacks a significant amount of nutrient-dense vegetables.

However, the recipe does have some positive aspects, such as the use of almond flour instead of refined wheat flour and the inclusion of herbs like oregano and basil, which offer some health benefits.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork to reduce the saturated fat content.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by adding finely chopped or grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach to the meatball mixture.
Prepare a homemade tomato sauce using fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs to control the amount of added salt and sugar.
Reduce the amount of cheese used or choose lower-fat alternatives like part-skim mozzarella or ricotta.
Serve the meatballs with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal.
Use whole grain breadcrumbs or rolled oats instead of almond flour to increase the fiber content.

Editor's Opinion on This Cheesy Meatball Recipe

The combination of beef and pork mince, along with the semi-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese, creates a rich and flavorful base for the meatballs. The addition of almond flour adds a unique twist and the use of bocconcini balls brings a delightful creaminess to the dish. The method of browning the meatballs before simmering them in the tomato sauce ensures a depth of flavor. Overall, this recipe promises a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Sun Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with garlic, parmesan, and olive oil, then roast until tender and crispy.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Whip up some creamy mashed potatoes with butter, cream, and a hint of nutmeg for the perfect side to complement the meatballs.

Grilled Zucchini and Squash: Slice zucchini and squash, then grill until charred and tender. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.

Similar Recipes to Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy chicken alfredo recipe is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It's the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These grilled vegetable skewers are a delicious and healthy side dish that's perfect for summer BBQs. The combination of colorful veggies and a flavorful marinade make these skewers a crowd-pleaser.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert that's perfect for a hot summer day. The sweet mango and creamy coconut milk make for a delicious and satisfying treat.

Spicy Black Bean Soup: This spicy black bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of black beans, vegetables, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying soup that's sure to warm you up.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Serve up a classic Italian appetizer with a twist by topping crispy slices of bread with a variety of fresh and vibrant toppings. From juicy tomatoes and basil to creamy burrata and balsamic glaze, the possibilities for bruschetta are endless and sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Crumble: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crumble, with a buttery oat topping and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Sun Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious blend of beef and pork mince, combined with flavorful semi-dried tomatoes and savory parmesan cheese. The use of almond flour adds a unique twist, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. The combination of oregano and basil infuses the meatballs with aromatic flavors. The addition of bocconcini balls adds a creamy and indulgent touch. Trust in the quality and balance of these ingredients to create a memorable and satisfying dish.

Excited to try out this Sun Dried Tomato Cheesy Meatballs Recipe? Share your experience, tips, and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the beef and pork mince with plant-based alternatives such as textured vegetable protein (TVP), lentils, or a mix of mushrooms and beans. You can also use vegetarian parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast instead of traditional parmesan.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free almond flour and ensuring that the tomato paste and tomato pasta sauce you use are also gluten-free. Always check the labels to ensure that there are no hidden sources of gluten in the ingredients.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for later use. Simply shape the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These sun-dried tomato cheesy meatballs pair well with a variety of sides such as pasta, zucchini noodles, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

While sun-dried tomatoes add a unique flavor and texture to the meatballs, you can certainly use fresh tomatoes as a substitute. Consider roasting or sautéing fresh tomatoes to concentrate their flavors before adding them to the meatball mixture.