Meatballs
~1/2 lbs bratwurst (2 American sized links), removed from casing1lb 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef
1/2 c. plain bread crumbs
1 egg
1/3 c. finely chopped sweet onion
1 garlic clove finely chopped
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbs Worcestershire sauce
1 cup cheddar cheese
Preheat oven to 400ºF. Thoroughly mix all ingredients. Roll into meatballs about 1 1/2" to 2" in diameter. Brown meatballs in stainless steel skillet (don't use non-stick - this browning is critical for flavoring the sauce!). Transfer meatballs to baking dish and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. When done, cut one open to make sure they are done cooking.
Deglaze the skillet with some water (or use some white wine, letting the alcohol burn off) and continue with sauce while meatballs are baking.
Sauce
1 can Campbell's Cream of Mushroom Soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste.
Mix all ingredients and heat to low simmer, then lower temperature and hold until meatballs and pasta are complete.
Pasta
Cook 8oz of your favorite pasta. Egg noodles probably work best. Large macaroni is good. Spaghetti probably not so good. Drain. Toss with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil.
Notes
- For best results, meatballs, sauce, and pasta should be offered separately.
- Should easily serve 4 people at a total cost of about $7.00.
