Are you craving a delicious and comforting meal but short on time? Look no further! This Instant Pot Meatball recipe delivers juicy, flavorful meatballs in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional methods. It's a perfect example of how easy and quick homemade cooking can be, ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a go-to for quick dinner ideas and easily adaptable to your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Cooking the Meatballs:
- Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You should get approximately 24 meatballs.
- Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the meatballs to the Instant Pot, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes and beef broth over the meatballs.
Pressure Cooking:
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the meatballs hot, straight from the Instant Pot. They are delicious on their own, over pasta, with rice, or in a hearty sub.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheese please: Stuff a small piece of mozzarella or provolone cheese into the center of each meatball before cooking for an extra cheesy treat.
- Different meats: Feel free to experiment with different ground meats, such as turkey or chicken.
- Veggie boost: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or carrots into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
- Make it a sauce: For a richer sauce, simmer the meatballs in the Instant Pot for an additional 5-10 minutes after the pressure cooking cycle is complete.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on 8 servings and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 20g
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
This Instant Pot Meatball recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The ease of preparation and the delicious results make it a true winner among easy recipes and healthy meal options. Enjoy!