Baked Meatballs

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 450° F and grease a 8 x 12 inch baking dish with olive oil to begin making these delicious Baked Meatballs.

Add the ground sausage to a large mixing bowl. Take the bread and run it under water until dampened. Squeeze the excess water out of the bread and then crumble into pieces, adding this to the bowl with the sausage along with the egg, oregano, cumin, molasses, and chili paste.

Once mixed, roll the meat into 2 tablespoon sized balls (should make about 10-12 meatballs). Place the meatballs in the prepared baking dish and place in the oven. Bake for 15 minutes or until the meatballs are crisp on the outside, but not yet cooked through on the inside.

While the meatballs are baking, combine the olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl, crushing tomatoes as you mix. Once the meatballs are ready, pour the sauce over them. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 25 minutes longer or until the meatballs are cooked through. Remove the foil and add the cheese. Place back in the oven until the mozzarella and provolone cheese are melted and golden, about 10 minutes. Serve with fresh oregano and your favorite pasta. Enjoy!

Pro Tip: Try pairing this yummy dish with this great bottle of wine!