When you want something hearty, flavorful, and family-friendly, meatballs are a timeless choice. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and loved by all ages. This recipe takes the humble meatball to a new level by blending minced meat with savory bits of bacon, aromatic herbs, and just the right amount of onion and breadcrumbs to hold everything together. What sets this dish apart is the option to top it with either a bold mustard-tomato glaze or a spiced pineapple-infused curry sauce. Both bring a distinctive twist to the classic meatball and allow you to tailor the flavor to your mood or occasion. Whether you’re craving sweet and tangy comfort or a hint of heat with tropical undertones, this recipe has you covered. These meatballs are baked rather than fried, making them more wholesome, and the fact that you can serve them over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes gives you even more flexibility. Ideal for weeknight dinners or small gatherings, this dish will become one of your go-to recipes. The sauces can also be made ahead, making meal prep even easier.
Servings: Makes about 4 generous servings
Ingredients for Meatballs
500g minced meat
2 rashers of bacon, finely chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Meatballs
Mix the chopped bacon with the minced meat in a large bowl. Add the onion, thyme, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Combine thoroughly until the mixture is well blended. Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them in a buttered, oven-safe dish. Choose one of the sauce options below, pour it over the meatballs, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 1 hour.
Option 1: Mustard-Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
½ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons corn flour (maizena)
2 teaspoons mustard
½ cup vinegar
1 tablespoon margarine
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon crushed garlic
Optional: 1 cup tomato sauce (for tomato variation)
Instructions
Combine brown sugar, corn flour, and mustard in a bowl. Add vinegar and melted margarine. Mix well. Stir in oregano and garlic. For a tomato-flavored version, mix in tomato sauce. Pour over meatballs before baking.
Option 2: Pineapple Curry Sauce
Ingredients
1 chopped onion (or more if preferred)
1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon salt
1½ tablespoons corn flour (maizena)
1½ tablespoons sugar
¼ cup vinegar
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
Sauté chopped onion in oil until soft. Add the remaining ingredients and stir well. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 5 minutes. Pour over meatballs and bake as directed.
Nutritional and Dietary Notes
This dish is high in protein thanks to the combination of beef and egg, and the addition of bacon boosts flavor and richness. If served with pasta, it makes a satisfying full meal. The curry sauce offers fruit and spice, while the mustard sauce brings sweetness and tang. Note that this recipe contains gluten, eggs, and animal fats, so it may not suit vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.
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Tried this savory meatball recipe? Tell us which sauce won your heart! Your tips and comments help others improve their meals, and your support means everything. Don’t forget to share with friends who love cozy, home-cooked dinners. We’re here for every delicious bite you create!