Mediterranean meatballs with tomato sauce

I was so happy when pork mince started to be sold at ALDI and for a very cheap price too - $4.50 for 500g. If you are after a budget meal that stretches a long way, this is a great one.  It makes approx 45 meatballs and would serve a large family or give you leftovers for the next two days!!

This meal varies a little from the norm as the meatballs are made with pork mince and use a secret ingredient 'cream cheese' (I guess it is not so secret anymore :)

Don't be deterred, they are very delicious and the meatballs are soft & tender.  Cooked with the tomato sauce, it is a healthy dish that I hope your family will enjoy. I actually prefer to eat it with spaghetti rather than cous cous but the choice is yours as ALDI sell both of them.

Amanda xx

Mediterranean meatballs with tomato sauce

1kg pork mince
1 small onion, very finely diced
2 cups breadcrumbs
2 eggs
2 cloves garlic, crushed
250g cream cheese
Salt & pepper 
Oil for frying
2 x 400g tins crushed tomatoes
2 cups chicken stock
2 tsp sugar
½ cup tomato paste
½ tsp oregano
Cous Cous or spaghetti to serve  


In a large bowl, add mince, onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic & cream cheese.  Add salt & pepper to taste.

Mix with your hands.  Form into small meatballs.

In a large frying pan over med to high heat, add oil.  Fry meatballs for 10 mins or until nearly cooked through.  Turn during cooking. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the meatballs.

In a large jug, add tomatoes, stock, sugar, tomato paste & oregano.  Stir to combine & pour over meatballs.

Bring to the boil then turn down  to medium heat.  Cook, uncovered for 15 to 20  mins.  Serve with cous cous or spaghetti. 

- Cooked meatballs, in fridge, covered for up to 3 days.
- Uncooked meatballs, in fridge, covered for up to 1 day.
- Uncooked meatballs, freeze, in airtight container for up to 3 months.