Name: Marry Me Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves minced garlic; 1 egg; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Marry Me Meatballs are not just any ordinary meatballs; they are a delightful combination of flavors that may just sweep you off your feet. Rich, creamy, and packed with savory goodness, these meatballs are perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or whenever you’re looking to impress. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and a luscious cream sauce elevates these meatballs to a whole new level. Let’s dive into this wonderful culinary creation!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: Approximately 450
Protein: 30 grams
Carbohydrates: 15 grams
Fat: 30 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 2 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

Why Make This Marry Me Meatballs

Marry Me Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can fit into various occasions, from cozy family dinners to elegant dinner parties. The creamy sauce combined with the juicy meatballs creates a comforting dish that is hard to resist. Plus, the flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes adds a touch of sophistication, making them perfect for impressing guests. Best of all, this recipe is quick and easy, ensuring that even novice cooks can create a stunning meal.

How to Make Marry Me Meatballs

Step 1: Preparation

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients together until just combined, but avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Mixing

Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. This step is crucial for getting that perfect bite every time.

Step 3: Cooking

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs to the skillet and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned meatballs and set them aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Finishing

In the same skillet, sauté the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer before returning the meatballs to the skillet. Cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened. For an extra kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes if desired. Finish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Marry Me Meatballs

Serve these succulent meatballs hot over a bed of pasta or with freshly baked bread to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also place them in a warm sub for a delicious meatball sandwich. Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

How to Store Marry Me Meatballs

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy. For longer storage, these meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a container for easy access.

Expert Tips for Perfect Marry Me Meatballs

Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the rest period after shaping the meatballs; this helps them hold together during cooking.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your palate, such as oregano or basil.
For a healthier twist, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or finely chopped mushrooms and lentils for a delicious veggie option.
Cheesy Meatballs: Incorporate mozzarella cheese into the meat mixture for gooey, melty bites.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy sausage in place of ground beef for an added heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and allow them to rest in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before cooking them.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making the creamy sauce?
Absolutely, using marinara sauce is an excellent shortcut. Just add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and heat through.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover Marry Me Meatballs are fantastic over rice, on a pizza, or tossed into a pasta salad for a quick meal.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
While sun-dried tomatoes add a unique sweetness, you can substitute fresh tomatoes; just ensure they are fully cooked and seasoned appropriately.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for breadcrumbs?
Yes! Crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour work well as substitutes for traditional breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Marry Me Meatballs are a delightful dish that bring comfort and flavor to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a sumptuous meal, these meatballs are sure to impress. With their creamy sauce and delicious ingredients, you’ll find it hard not to fall in love with this dish. Give it a try; you might just find yourself saying "I do!" to these meatballs!