If you're looking for a practical, flavorful recipe that will please the entire family, these stuffed meatballs with potatoes are the perfect choice. Combining the soft texture of potatoes with well-seasoned ground beef creates an explosion of flavors that will win over even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is easy to make, and these meatballs can be served as a main dish or a side for a special meal. Plus, they are baked in the oven, making the recipe healthier. Let's walk through this step-by-step guide to prepare this delicious dish that will impress your guests!
Start by boiling 8 potatoes in a pot with enough water to cover them. Choose medium-sized potatoes, as they are perfect for stuffing. Let them cook until they become tender but not falling apart.
Add salt to the water to season the potatoes while they cook. This helps the potatoes absorb the flavor right from the start.
Cover the pot and let the potatoes cook until they are perfectly tender. This should take about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes.
While the potatoes are cooking, let's prepare the ground beef. In a bowl, place 500 grams of ground beef. This will be the base for our meatballs.
Add salt and black pepper to the ground beef. The black pepper adds a slight kick that pairs perfectly with the mild flavor of the potatoes.
Now, add one egg to the ground beef mixture. The egg helps bind the mixture, making it easier to shape the meatballs.
Add half a chopped onion to the beef mixture. Onion adds a nice, aromatic flavor that complements the beef.
Next, add 3 chopped garlic cloves. The garlic will enhance the flavor, ensuring the meatballs are well-seasoned.
Add 4 tablespoons of wheat flour to the mixture. The flour helps hold the meatballs together and gives them a nice texture.
Add a drizzle of olive oil to the mixture. This keeps the meat moist and adds richness to the flavor.
Finally, add some fresh parsley to the mixture. Parsley brings a burst of freshness and enhances the aroma of the dish.
Now, take portions of the meat mixture and shape them into flat patties with your hands. Make sure to keep the meat thin enough for stuffing.
Once the potatoes are cooked and cooled enough to handle, place one potato in the center of each meat patty and close it up, shaping it into a stuffed meatball. The potato will act as a delicious filling inside the meatball.
Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil and spread it evenly with a brush. This prevents the meatballs from sticking while they bake.
Place the stuffed meatballs in the greased baking dish, leaving a bit of space between them to allow for even cooking. Set the dish aside.
Now let's prepare the sauce. Slice one onion into thin rings, which will be sautéed to create a flavorful base.
Slice half of a red, yellow, and green bell pepper into strips. These colorful peppers will add both flavor and visual appeal to the dish.
In a skillet, drizzle a little olive oil and heat it over medium heat. This will be the base for our sautéed vegetables.
Add the sliced onions to the skillet and sauté them until they start to turn golden. Caramelized onions will add a natural sweetness to the sauce.
Next, add the bell peppers to the skillet and stir. Let them cook for a few minutes until they soften but still retain their vibrant colors.
Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt to enhance their flavors.
Add some black pepper to the sautéed vegetables for a little extra kick.
Now, add 100 grams of tomato paste to the skillet, giving the sauce a rich color and deep flavor.
Pour 100 ml of water into the skillet to dilute the tomato paste and create a nice, smooth sauce to pour over the meatballs.
Pour the bell pepper and tomato sauce over the stuffed meatballs in the baking dish, covering them completely with this flavorful sauce.
Sprinkle 150 grams of mozzarella over the meatballs and place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Remove the meatballs from the oven and serve! These stuffed meatballs, with a delicious potato filling and melted cheese, are ready to be enjoyed. Pair them with a fresh salad or some rice for a complete meal.
To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some oregano or fresh basil over the mozzarella before baking. This will add a delightful aroma and give the dish a more sophisticated taste.
These stuffed meatballs with potatoes are a true flavor explosion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family lunch or a special dinner. The contrast between the seasoned beef and the soft potato filling, topped with melted cheese, makes this dish absolutely irresistible. Give it a try and impress everyone with this incredible combination!