Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! This Meatballs and Cabbage recipe is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, simple to prepare, and guaranteed to please the whole family. Forget complicated recipes; this one is all about delicious, homemade cooking made easy. This recipe offers quick dinner ideas that are also healthy meals, perfect for those seeking simple yet satisfying dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large head of cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes, until slightly wilted.
Step 3: Simmer the Meatballs and Cabbage
Add the meatballs to the pot with the vegetables. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir in the sugar (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the meatballs and cabbage hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley. This delicious dish pairs well with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Meatballs and Cabbage:
- Don't overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing develops the gluten in the breadcrumbs, resulting in tough meatballs.
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a hint of spice.
- Customize your vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is great for meal prepping. The meatballs and cabbage can be made ahead of time and reheated.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs and Cabbage: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture and a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
- Italian-Style Meatballs and Cabbage: Substitute Italian seasoning for the oregano and add a splash of red wine to the sauce.
- Leaner Meatballs: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a healthier option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This simple recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch. Enjoy this easy-to-follow recipe for the best meatballs and cabbage you've ever tasted. The combination of tender meatballs, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked cabbage creates a truly satisfying and wholesome dish. This recipe fits perfectly into a range of dietary needs, offering healthy meals and easy recipes all in one.