Go Back
–+ servings
Turkish Izmir-Style Baked Meatballs

Irresistible Turkish Izmir-Style Baked Meatballs for Comfort

Enjoy the comforting embrace of Turkish Izmir-Style Baked Meatballs, layered with potatoes and tomatoes, perfect for family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Turkish
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound Ground Beef or Lamb or ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • 1 small Onion, grated provides moisture and flavor.
  • 2 slices White Bread, crusts removed, soaked or gluten-free bread.
  • 1 Egg acts as a binder.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, finely chopped adds freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin for earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt to elevate flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Paprika for mild heat and color.
For the Vegetables and Sauce
  • 2 large Russet Potatoes, peeled and sliced hearty vegetable.
  • 2 medium Tomatoes, sliced adds acidity and sweetness.
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper, cut into strips for crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste for concentrated flavor.
  • 1.5 cups Hot Water to create sauce base.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all your ingredients.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, soaked bread, egg, parsley, cumin, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly for about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Shape the mixture into oval meatballs, approximately 2 inches long. Place on a plate or baking sheet.
  4. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Fry meatballs for about 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. Transfer to a plate.
  5. In the same skillet, add sliced potatoes and fry for 6-8 minutes until golden. Transfer to a plate to cool slightly.
  6. Layer the browned meatballs in a baking dish. Add potato wedges, then top with sliced tomatoes and green bell pepper strips.
  7. In a bowl, whisk together tomato paste and hot water until smooth. Pour sauce over layered ingredients.
  8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes.
  9. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving warm, preferably with rice or salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal taste, ensure meatballs are uniform in size and don't rush the browning process. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!