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Ingredients
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Meatballs
Vodka Sauce
Method
Meatballs
- 1
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded fontina cheese, calabrian chili paste, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix until well combined.
- 2
Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 3
Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
Vodka Sauce
- 4
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 5
Add Tomatoes and Vodka
Add the crushed tomatoes and vodka to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
- 6
Finish the Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- 7
Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Once the meatballs are done baking, add them to the vodka sauce and gently stir to coat. Cook together for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- 8
Garnish and Serve
Serve the spicy meatballs hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil on top.
