Marry Me Meatballs

These Marry Me Meatballs are so delicious that they might just inspire a proposal! Juicy meatballs simmered in a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce make this dish perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy night in. Serve them over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is full of flavor and sure to impress.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it starts to thicken.

Step 3: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

1. Once the meatballs are done baking, add them to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce and let them simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
2. Enjoy with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Meat Mixture: For extra flavor, you can use a mix of ground beef, pork, and veal.
• Cheese: Grate your own Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can affect the texture.
• Baking vs. Frying: Baking the meatballs is a healthier option, but you can also pan-fry them for a crispier exterior if desired.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
• Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Add a small cube of mozzarella cheese to the center of each meatball for a cheesy surprise.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat to make vegetarian meatballs and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the fat content of the meat.

4. What Can I Serve with Marry Me Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh side salad. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Marry Me Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food, with tender meatballs simmered in a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce that’s sure to impress. This dish is easy to make, yet full of flavor and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family meal. Give this recipe a try, and who knows—it might just become a new favorite in your household!