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Marry Me Meatballs

Marry Me Meatballs

Marry Me Meatballs are indulgent meatballs in a rich, creamy sauce that will have everyone at the table swooning.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DINNER PLATES
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef feel free to use all beef or turkey for a lighter option
  • 1 pound ground pork ensures moist, tender meatballs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs try seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor
  • 1 large egg acts as a binder; can replace with a flax egg for a vegan option
  • 3 cloves garlic minced; fresh garlic is best
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped; shallots can be a substitute
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese adds creaminess; pecorino cheese is an alternative
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning classic Italian taste; consider adding fresh herbs
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional; adjust according to spice preference
  • to taste salt essential for balancing flavors
  • to taste pepper essential for balancing flavors
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing meatballs
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes or San Marzano tomatoes for a sweeter taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese adds depth to the sauce; consider nutritional yeast for a vegan option
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Skillet
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

How to Make Marry Me Meatballs
  1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper until just combined.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and set them aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear meatballs until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary, and stir in the tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in heavy cream and additional Parmesan. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Return the seared meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley right before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Serve over pasta or in a sub for a delightful twist. Allow resting time for meatballs after cooking for optimal flavor.

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