Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that's both delicious and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This rice and meatballs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, blending familiar flavors into a truly comforting dish. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 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
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked rice
Instructions:
Making 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 make the meatballs tough.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and brown the meatballs on all sides. This step adds great flavor! Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Set aside.
Making the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, and sugar. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
- Add the browned meatballs to the sauce. Gently stir to coat, cover, and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serving:
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. This delicious dish is perfect for a quick dinner, a comforting lunch, or even a family gathering.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some mozzarella cheese over the meatballs and sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Add vegetables: Include chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile.
- Meal prepping made easy: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy rice and meatballs recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one truly delivers on flavor and ease. Enjoy!