Myrtle Wilson’s Spiced Pork Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy pork meatballs infused with warm spices and simmered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce, inspired by the raw and passionate character of Myrtle Wilson. This mediterranean-inspired pork ready in about 50 minutes blends pound ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, soak 1/3 cup breadcrumbs in 1/4 cup milk for 5 minutes until softened. Add 1 pound ground pork, 1 large egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, about 20 pieces.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides for 6-7 minutes, turning carefully.
  4. Step 4: Remove meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, add 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Return meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer on low for 15 minutes until cooked through and sauce thickens.
  6. Step 6: Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Myrtle Wilson’s Spiced Pork Meatballs with Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 50 minutes (20 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Myrtle Wilson’s Spiced Pork Meatballs with Tomato Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Myrtle Wilson’s Spiced Pork Meatballs with Tomato Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Myrtle Wilson’s Spiced Pork Meatballs with Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Myrtle Wilson’s Spiced Pork Meatballs with Tomato Sauce?

Mediterranean pork like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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