Christmas Meatballs (pilotes De Nadal)

Christmas Meatballs, or Pilotes de Nadal, are a traditional dish from Valencian cuisine that are perfect for holiday gatherings. These flavorful meatballs are a delicious addition to any festive meal.

Christmas Meatballs (pilotes De Nadal)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into meatballs.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened, then add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the tomato sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
  5. Serve the Christmas meatballs hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
25 minutes
Total time:
45 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
10g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Large bowl Skillet Spatula Cooking spoon Cover for skillet

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Serve the Christmas meatballs with crusty bread or over a bed of cooked pasta for a hearty holiday meal.

Tips & tricks

For a festive touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top of the meatballs before serving.

Cost

$15