Beef Balls With Tomatoes
Juicy beef balls with fresh herbs and tomatoes, offering a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with vibrant Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef with eggs, salt, thyme, pepper, garlic, chives, and parsley until well combined.
- Stir vigorously with a spoon until the mixture stiffens enough to shape into balls.
- Shape the mixture into 8 balls, about the size of extra large eggs.
- Roll each ball in flour to coat evenly.
- Set aside the prepared beef balls for cooking or refrigeration.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you're out of chives, green onions or shallots can be a great substitute. You can also swap all-purpose flour for breadcrumbs to give the beef balls a different texture. Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to avoid toughening the meat.
Serving Suggestions
These beef balls pair beautifully with whole halved tomatoes, which can be roasted alongside them for a flavorful side. Consider serving them over a bed of rice or alongside Mediterranean recipes like Spanakoriso (Spinach And Rice) for a complete meal. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette would also complement this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover beef balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, covering to steam them for a few minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Balls With Tomatoes contains roughly 110 calories, with 6g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 958mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the beef balls before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the beef balls before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before proceeding with cooking instructions.
What can I serve with beef balls?
Beef balls can be served with a variety of sides. They go well with pasta, rice, or even as a filling for sandwiches. Pair them with marinara sauce for a hearty dish or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a lighter option. A side of crusty bread can also be great for soaking up any juices.
How do I know when the beef balls are fully cooked?
To ensure the beef balls are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Alternatively, cut one in half; it should be no longer pink inside and the juices should run clear. Cooking times may vary based on size, so adjust accordingly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).