1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning or dried basil leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper
1/2 cup raw, long grain rice
15 ounce can herb flavored tomato sauce
1/2 cup beef broth or water
Fresh basil leaf or chopped parsley, for garnish

Preparation Instructions:

1. Combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, herb seasoning, salt and pepper. Mix well.

2. Divide meat mixture into 4 equal parts. Shape each into a ball. Press each ball down slightly.

3. Roll each meatball in rice. Place into a casserole dish.

4. Combine the tomato sauce with the broth or water. Pour over the meatballs. Cover.

5. Bake at 375 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes or until the rice and meat are cooked.

6. Garnish with fresh basil leaf or parsley.

Good served with: Cooked vegetables with butter and herbs, fresh sliced tomatoes or a green salad with red onion rings, and baked apples with ice cream for dessert.