Marry Me Meatballs Recipe

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Hello there, wonderful readers! Today, I’m beyond thrilled to share a recipe that’s close to my heart and never fails to impress—Marry Me Meatballs. Picture yourself relishing tender, flavor-packed meatballs that are just begging to be devoured. This dish is a culinary masterpiece so delightful that it just might lead to a proposal! Yes, these meatballs are legendary enough to spark matrimonial dreams. In this post, I’ll walk you through creating your own love-infused dish, focusing on perfecting each step with you. So, what makes the Marry Me Meatballs so enchanting? Let’s delve in!

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Meatballs

These meatballs are not just any meatballs—they’re a symphony of rich flavors and comforting textures that transform simple ingredients into something magical. Perfectly browned on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, these meatballs offer a well-rounded taste with a delightful hint of Parmesan. Their appeal stretches far beyond their delectable taste. You’ll love them because they are easy to make, versatile, and sure to satisfy any meat lover’s cravings. Plus, they cater to various dietary preferences and can be customized to suit your family’s needs.

Ingredients for Marry Me Meatballs

Let’s roll up our sleeves and gather the ingredients! Here’s what you need:

1 pound ground beef

1/2 pound ground pork

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 egg

1/4 cup milk

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup marinara sauce

Necessary Tools

To make these mouthwatering meatballs, you’ll need a few essential kitchen companions:

Large mixing bowl

Baking sheet

Skillet for browning

Baking dish for finishing the meatballs in the oven

Tongs for turning the meatballs

Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Everyone loves a dish that bends to their tastes and dietary needs. Here are some swaps and additions you might consider:

1. Ground Meat: You can use all beef if you don’t have pork or prefer a leaner option like turkey or chicken.
2. Breadcrumbs: For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
3. Parmesan Cheese: Swap it with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free alternative for those with allergies.
4. Herbs: Customize with your favorite herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist.

Feel free to play around with these options to suit your taste and dietary needs.

How to Make Marry Me Meatballs

• Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your oven is ready to bake the meatballs to perfection.

• Combine the Meats

In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef and ground pork with your hands. Handle cautiously to maintain the meatballs’ tenderness.

• Add Ingredients and Mix

Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, milk, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined. Do not overwork the mixture.

• Shape the Meatballs

Form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet. This is your moment to give each meatball its individual character!

• Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs in batches, turning to sear all sides. Use tongs for easy flipping.

• Finish in the Oven

Transfer browned meatballs into a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and tender.

Pro tip: If the sauce thickens too much, a splash of broth does wonders!

Serving Suggestions

Pair these delightful meatballs with your favorite pasta, or nestle them into a warm sub roll for a hearty sandwich. For a complete meal, a Caesar salad or garlic bread on the side complements Marry Me Meatballs beautifully. Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving for a touch of elegance.

Pro Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor:

Toast your spices before adding them for a deeper aroma.

Allow the mixture to rest before shaping for easier handling.

Sear, then bake: This double-cooking method helps lock in juices.

Common mistakes include over-mixing, resulting in tough meatballs, and not pre-heating the oven, which can cause uneven cooking.

How to Store Marry Me Meatballs

Got leftovers? Store the meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to two months. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain their tender texture and delicious flavor.

General Information

• 1. Prep Time: 20 minutes
  2. Cook Time: 35 minutes
  3. Yield: 4 servings
  4. Difficulty: Easy

FAQs

• Can I make these meatballs without an oven?

Sure! Simmer them in sauce on your stovetop until fully cooked.

• How can I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Be sure not to overhandle the meat mixture; slightly chilling it before shaping helps too.

• Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground meat with a plant-based protein and aim for a similarly moist dough with more breadcrumbs or flaxseed.

• What if I don’t like marinara sauce?

Experiment with Alfredo or a rich mushroom sauce for a new flavor direction!

• How spicy are these meatballs?

They have a gentle warmth, but you can add red pepper flakes for more heat.

• Can I substitute the egg?

Yes, try flax eggs for a vegan alternative.

• Why add milk?

Milk locks in moisture and creates a luscious texture.

Conclusion

There you have it—a recipe that delights with every bite and is sure to win over any hearts gathered around your table. Dive into the creation of Marry Me Meatballs and cherish the joy Marry Me Meatballs brings. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you—drop a comment below with your thoughts or share your culinary successes! Also, be sure to check out our other hearty meatball recipes to broaden your repertoire.

Nutritional Information

Per serving:

• 1. Calories: 450 kcal
  2. Protein: 28 grams
  3. Fat: 27 grams
  4. Carbohydrates: 16 grams

These meatballs are high in protein and naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Consider swapping Parmesan for nutritional yeast if dairy-free is needed. With these adjustments, you can tailor them to be even healthier!

Let’s get cooking, and fall in love all over again with each savory bite!

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