Meatball Pie with a Cheese Crust
Description
The recipe won’t take much time. Meatballs can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer. In the original version they go into the dough raw, but I prefer them fried. These meatballs turn out with a crispy crust, which helps retain all the juice inside. Which method to choose is up to you. You can make a meatball pie with a cheese crust for a family dinner or when close friends come over. The ingredients are calculated for an 18–20 cm pan. The bake is hearty and very tasty! Take note: it can be served with tea or coffee.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
Prepare all the ingredients.
- 2
Step 2
Transfer the minced meat to a deep bowl.
- 3
Step 3
Add grated onion (using a coarse grater), minced garlic, oatmeal flakes (optional), salt, and pepper to taste.
- 4
Step 4
Add about 50 ml of cold water for juiciness and mix everything thoroughly.
- 5
Step 5
Form meatballs from the prepared ground meat, coat them in flour, and transfer them to a well‑heated skillet.
- 6
Step 6
Sear the meatballs on both sides over high heat until lightly browned. Do not cook them through, as they will finish cooking during the baking in the oven.
- 7
Step 7
In a deep bowl, beat the eggs with salt. Add kefir, flour, and baking powder. Stir everything until smooth. The dough is ready.
- 8
Step 8
Line the baking pan with parchment paper. Sprinkle the bottom and sides with semolina or flour and pour in the batter. Smooth it with a spoon.
- 9
Step 9
Sprinkle the dough with a little grated cheese on top and press the meatballs into the dough.
- 10
Step 10
Spread the meatballs with mayonnaise (you can replace it with sour cream) and sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top. Bake at 180 °C for about 50 minutes or until a golden crust forms on top (adjust according to your oven).
- 11
Step 11
The meatball pie with a cheese crust is ready. Let it stand for 15–20 minutes and serve.
- 12
Step 12
Remove from the oven and serve warm or cooled.