Southwest Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tsp southwest seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the tomato sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp southwest seasoning
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp sugar (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the meatballs:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, southwest seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cilantro, cheese, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix thoroughly and form into small meatballs (about 1–1.5 inches in diameter).

2. Cook the meatballs:

   • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
   • Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the tomato sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté diced onion until softened.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, southwest seasoning, smoked paprika, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper.
   • Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine and finish:

   • Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
   • Simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the flavors.

5. Serve:

   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread.