Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! These Stove Top Stuffing Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Forget the fuss of traditional stuffing – this recipe combines all the flavors you love in a juicy, satisfying meatball. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to heavier dishes. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey or chicken (for a healthier option)
- 1 cup stuffing mix (your favorite brand will do!)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce (marinara recommended)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your stove to medium heat. This ensures your meatballs cook evenly and prevents burning.
Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey or chicken, stuffing mix, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs. We want them nice and tender!
Form the Meatballs:
- Using your hands (lightly oiled to prevent sticking), roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Aim for consistent size for even cooking.
Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If necessary, brown the meatballs in batches.
Simmer in Sauce:
- Once browned, pour the pasta sauce over the meatballs. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. This low and slow cooking method ensures the meatballs are juicy and flavorful.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve these delicious Stove Top Stuffing Meatballs over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra touch of freshness.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in tough meatballs.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Create a small indentation in each meatball before browning and add a small piece of mozzarella or provolone cheese.
- Vegetarian Meatballs: Substitute the ground meat with a vegetarian crumbles and add some finely chopped vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, to the mixture.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on meat and sauce choice)
- Protein: Approximately 10-15g
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
These Stove Top Stuffing Meatballs offer a quick, easy, and delicious meal solution perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. They’re a great example of healthy meals that don’t compromise on flavor. Enjoy!