Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck , Ground
2 tablespoons margarine
1 medium green pepper , Chopped
1 medium onion , Chopped
1 can stewed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/4 teaspoon thyme
2 tablespoons unbleached flour
Italian bread basket
green pepper ring
cherry tomatoes
Italian Meatballs in a Basket is a classic comfort food. It is one of the most loved dishes from Italy and has been enjoyed for generations. This dish is made by cooking beef meatballs in a delicious tomato-based sauce with bell peppers and onions. The meatballs are then served in an Italian bread basket as a unique and delightful way to present the dish. It's a perfect recipe for family dinners or when you have friends over. The dish is filling, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Instructions

1.Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2.In a large bowl, add the ground beef, basil and thyme, and mix well. Roll the mixture into meatballs.
3.In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the margarine and sauté the onions and green peppers until tender and golden brown.
4.Add stewed tomatoes and flour to the skillet. Mix well.
5.Add meatballs one by one and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
6.Meanwhile, cut a 1-inch thick slice from the top of your Italian bread loaf, making a basket.
7.Scoop out the inside of the basket and set aside.
8.Fill the inside of the Italian bread basket with the meatballs and sauce mixture.
9.Put the top back on and bake it in your preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes.
10.Garnish the top of the basket with a green pepper ring and cherry tomatoes in the center. Serve hot and enjoy!

PROS

Italian Meatballs in a Basket are extremely tasty and filling, making it an ideal meal for a cozy family dinner.
The dish provides a good source of protein and vitamin C from the beef, tomatoes, and green pepper.
The dish is also versatile, and you can make it as spicy or mild as your taste buds desire.

CONS

The dish is made with beef chuck, which can increase the fat content of the meal.
Additionally, the bread basket can add carbs and calories to the dish.
Lastly, it requires a long prep time for cooking the meatballs and makes the recipe slightly complicated for beginner cooks.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Italian meatballs are a good source of protein, which helps with muscle repair and growth. The vitamin C found in green pepper helps to support your immune system. Additionally, the basil and thyme are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support overall health.

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