Catalan-style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce (Albóndigas con Salsa de Tomate)

Albóndigas con Salsa de Tomate, or Catalan-style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce, is a classic dish from the Catalan cuisine that features flavorful meatballs cooked in a rich and tangy tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Catalan Meatballs Tomato Sauce Catalan Cuisine Spanish Food
Catalan-style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce (Albóndigas con Salsa de Tomate)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup grated onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken or beef broth
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened. Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
  4. Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
  5. Serve the Albóndigas con Salsa de Tomate hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large bowl Skillet Spatula Cooking spoon Cover for skillet

Tools

Knife Cutting board

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Albóndigas con Salsa de Tomate is traditionally served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips & tricks

Tips: For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce while simmering the meatballs.

Cost

$15