Meatball Appetizer Recipe
Served with Marinara & Pesto
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Ingredients
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Meatballs
Marinara Sauce
Pesto Sauce
Method
Meatballs
- 1
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- 2
Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 3
Cook the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
Marinara Sauce
- 4
- 5
Combine Ingredients for Marinara
Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, sugar, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- 6
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the marinara sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
Pesto Sauce
- 7
Blend the Pesto Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- 8
Adjust the Consistency
If the pesto is too thick, add a bit more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.