Let me introduce you to a gem from South American cuisine, the “…Chimichurri Meatballs!” These flavorful globes of minced meat, herbs, and spices baked to golden perfection, and smothered in vibrant chimichurri sauce will definitely excite your taste buds. Served as appetizers or main dish, Chimichurri Meatballs are a fantastic choice for family suppers or sophisticated dinner parties. The charm lies in the fusion of textures and flavors that these meatballs bring, leaving you appetized and satiated at the same time. You’ll absolutely love these!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: 16 meatballs
Without further ado, let’s get those mixing bowls ready and dive straight into this heavenly culinary experience.
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 cup chimichurri sauce
You’ll also need a mixing bowl, baking sheet, and oven.
The chimichurri sauce is the star of the show, providing a tangy, herbaceous flavor balance to the savory meatballs. Remember, using fresh garlic cloves will give an unbeatable flavor kick. If you can’t get hold of breadcrumbs, crushed stale bread or cracker crumbs can be used instead.
How To Make Chimichurri Meatballs
1. Preheat your oven to 400��F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps to bake the meatballs evenly without them sticking to the sheet.
2. In the mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and egg. Make sure to mix these thoroughly until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked and browned.
5. Toss the baked meatballs in chimichurri sauce until they’re fully coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips For The Best Results
- For even baking, make sure all meatballs are similar in size.
- Avoid over-mixing the meatball mixture as this can make the meatballs tough.
Storage Tips
- You can store these in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- These meatballs also freeze well for up to 3 months. Be sure to freeze them individually on a baking sheet first before packing in containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use another type of meat?
A: Yes, you can certainly use ground chicken, turkey, or pork.
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can form the meatballs, place them on baking sheets and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.
Q: How spicy are these meatballs?
A: The spice level depends on your chimichurri sauce. You can adjust it to your liking.
Q: Can I fry these meatballs instead of baking?
A: Yes, you can fry the meatballs in a pan with a little oil over medium heat until browned all over and cooked through.
Q: Can I serve these meatballs with something other than chimichurri sauce?
A: Sure! They go great with marinara, barbeque, or even a tangy yogurt dip.
Nutritional Facts of Chimichurri Meatballs
- Calories: 340kcal
- Fat: 17g
- Carbs: 15g
- Protein: 22g
Bringing our culinary journey to a close, the Chimichurri Meatballs prove to be a category in themselves. Full of vibrant flavors and textures, they stand perfectly well on their own, or as a partner to a bed of fluffy white rice or crusty bread. The choice is yours. Bon appetit!
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