Spiced Meatball Melt

Tender beef and pork mince meatballs seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, served on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, smothered in rich tomato sauce and melted cheese.
ingredients
- 8 oz beef mince
- 8 oz pork mince
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
steps
- 1.
In a large bowl, combine the beef mince, pork mince, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- 2.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- 3.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- 4.
In the same skillet, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, and thyme. Stir well to combine. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- 5.
Add the meatballs back to the skillet, coating them with the tomato sauce. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- 6.
Preheat the broiler in your oven. Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top. Place under the broiler for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- 7.
Serve the Spiced Meatball Melt over a generous portion of mashed potatoes, allowing the sauce to soak into the creamy goodness.