Soutzoukakia Me Patates is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Greek cuisine. This comforting recipe features tender meatballs nestled on a bed of roasted potatoes, all enveloped in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress with its aromatic spices and hearty ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, making Soutzoukakia Me Patates is a breeze.
• Flavorful: The combination of herbs and spices infuses each bite with mouthwatering taste, making it a hit for meat lovers.
• Versatile: Serve this dish for a casual dinner or special occasion; it fits any gathering perfectly.
• Filling: Packed with protein and carbohydrates, this meal will satisfy hungry appetites.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

To make Soutzoukakia Me Patates successfully, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and proper presentation for serving.
• Grater: Helps to finely shred onion and garlic, enhancing flavor integration.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient quantities, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.

this recipe

Ingredients

Soutzoukakia Me Patates (Meatballs with Potatoes) is a classic, Greek comfort dish. This hearty meal is comprised of aromatic meatballs and roasted potatoes in a tomato sauce that the whole family will enjoy.

For the Meatballs

• 340g ground beef (3/4 lb)
• 3/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 medium onion (grated)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint (chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried mint)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 lemon (juiced)
• salt and pepper

For the Potatoes

• 4 large potatoes (cut into wedges)
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• salt and pepper

For the Sauce

• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/4 cup olive oil

How to Make Soutzoukakia Me Patates

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Start by drizzling olive oil at the bottom of a large baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Place the potato wedges in the baking dish. Season them with oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss well so that every piece is coated evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Potatoes

Pour tomato sauce and water over seasoned potatoes. Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatball ingredients—ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, ground cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined. Scoop out portions of mixture into your hands and shape them into ovals.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs with Potatoes

After the initial baking time for potatoes is up, place your formed soutzoukakia on top of them. Continue baking everything together for an additional 50-60 minutes until both are cooked through. Flip the potatoes and soutzoukakia halfway through to ensure even coating in tomato sauce.

Enjoy this wonderful Soutzoukakia Me Patates with your loved ones!

How to Serve Soutzoukakia Me Patates

Soutzoukakia Me Patates is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience for the whole family. This dish offers various serving options that enhance its flavors and presentation.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the soutzoukakia over fluffy rice to soak up the rich tomato sauce, adding a comforting touch to your plate.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness balances the hearty meatballs and potatoes perfectly.

With Garlic Bread

• Enjoy alongside warm garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavors complement the dish, making it even more satisfying.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top your soutzoukakia with freshly chopped parsley or mint for an aromatic finish that brightens up the dish.

With Yogurt Dip

• Offer a side of creamy yogurt dip seasoned with herbs. The coolness of yogurt contrasts nicely with the warm meatballs.

How to Perfect Soutzoukakia Me Patates

To achieve the best Soutzoukakia Me Patates, keep these tips in mind for optimal results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality ground beef make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Adequate salt and pepper are crucial for enhancing the overall taste of your meatballs.
• Form uniform shapes: Make sure your soutzoukakia are similar in size for even cooking throughout.
• Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on the potatoes; they should be fork-tender but not mushy. Adjust baking time as needed.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences. Adding more cumin or trying paprika can elevate the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Soutzoukakia Me Patates

Complementing your Soutzoukakia Me Patates with delicious side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Tzatziki Sauce
   A refreshing yogurt-based dip mixed with cucumber and garlic that adds creaminess to each bite.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until tender provide color and nutrition.
3. Greek Lemon Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with lemon juice and zest gives a citrusy note that pairs wonderfully with meatballs.
4. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus adds a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor contrast to the softness of the potatoes.
5. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
   A colorful mix of quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives dressed in olive oil offers freshness and fiber.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
   These flavorful dolmas filled with rice and herbs serve as an excellent appetizer or side that complements the main dish well.
7. Feta Cheese Crumbles
   A sprinkle of feta adds saltiness and creaminess that enhances the overall flavor profile when served alongside soutzoukakia.
8. Cucumber Salad
   A simple salad made from sliced cucumbers, red onion, and dill provides a refreshing crunch that balances out the meal’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When cooking Soutzoukakia Me Patates, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients can lead to imbalanced flavors. Always use a scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Overcooking the meatballs: Cooking meatballs for too long can make them dry. Keep an eye on them during baking and check for doneness early.
• Not seasoning adequately: Insufficient seasoning can leave the dish bland. Taste the mixture before shaping the meatballs and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Ignoring potato preparation: Failing to cut potatoes evenly can result in uneven cooking. Make sure all potato wedges are similar in size for consistent results.
• Forgetting to flip during cooking: Neglecting to turn the potatoes and meatballs halfway through can prevent even coating in tomato sauce. Flip them gently to ensure they soak up all the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Soutzoukakia Me Patates

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for tracking.

Reheating Soutzoukakia Me Patates

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Soutzoukakia Me Patates.

What is Soutzoukakia Me Patates?

Soutzoukakia Me Patates is a Greek dish featuring flavorful meatballs served with roasted potatoes in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef in Soutzoukakia Me Patates. It will still be delicious and slightly lighter.

How do I customize my Soutzoukakia?

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices such as thyme or paprika to enhance flavor. You can also mix different types of ground meat.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total time for making Soutzoukakia Me Patates is approximately 95 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, making it convenient for busy days.

Final Thoughts

Soutzoukakia Me Patates is not only comforting but also versatile. Whether you stick with traditional flavors or customize it with your favorite herbs, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try and enjoy its hearty goodness!

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Soutzoukakia Me Patates

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Soutzoukakia Me Patates is a comforting Greek dish that showcases tender beef meatballs paired with perfectly roasted potatoes, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty meal not only captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors but also provides a satisfying experience for family dinners or gatherings. Infused with aromatic herbs and spices, each bite offers a delightful burst of taste, making it a favorite among both adults and children. Whether served on its own or alongside fresh salads and warm bread, Soutzoukakia Me Patates is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 340g ground beef
• 3/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 medium onion (grated)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 4 large potatoes (cut into wedges)
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 3 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 lemon (juiced)
• salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Drizzle olive oil at the bottom of a baking dish.
2. 2. In the baking dish, place potato wedges and season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. 3. Pour tomato sauce and water over the seasoned potatoes. Bake for 30 minutes until starting to soften.
4. 4. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into oval meatballs.
5. 5. After the initial potato baking time is up, place meatballs on top of the potatoes and bake everything together for an additional 50-60 minutes until cooked through.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 80 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter option. Customize the seasoning by adding your favorite herbs like thyme or paprika. For added freshness when serving, top with chopped parsley or mint.