Why Make This Recipe
Marry Me Meatballs are not just any meatballs; they are a dish that many say could make anyone fall in love! Packed with flavors from ground chicken, pork, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, these meatballs create the perfect comfort food experience. Plus, they are relatively easy to make, making them ideal for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
How to Make Marry Me Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 large egg, beaten to blend
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- 1/2 lb. ground pork
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan, divided
- 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves or 1 tsp. dried thyme, divided
- Kosher salt
- 3/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, plus 3 Tbsp. tomato oil, divided
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3/4 cup low-sodium vegetable broth or water
- 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 Tbsp. torn fresh basil
Directions:
- In a large bowl, use a rubber spatula to mix the egg, garlic, chicken, pork, bread crumbs, red pepper flakes, 1/2 cup Parmesan, half of the thyme, and 1 teaspoon of salt until everything is combined.
- Scoop the meat mixture into balls, about 1 tablespoon each, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 5 minutes.
- In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of tomato oil. Add the meatballs and cook, turning as needed, until they are browned on all sides, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to a plate.
- In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of tomato oil. Add the onion and sun-dried tomatoes; season with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens, about 7 minutes. Add the remaining thyme and cook until warmed through, about 1 minute more.
- Stir in the broth, then the cream. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes. Return the meatballs to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat. Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan. Top with basil.
How to Serve Marry Me Meatballs
Serve Marry Me Meatballs over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. They are also great on their own as an appetizer!
How to Store Marry Me Meatballs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Marry Me Meatballs
- Don’t overmix the meat; just combine until everything is incorporated for a tender meatball.
- Freeze the meatballs before cooking to help them hold their shape during cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Variation
For a different flavor, you can substitute ground turkey for the chicken and pork. You can also change the herbs by using oregano or parsley for a fresh twist.
FAQs
-
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, frozen meatballs can be used. Just add them to the sauce, and cook until heated through. -
Can I make the sauce without cream?
Absolutely! You can use milk or a non-dairy substitute for a lighter option. -
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Use gluten-free panko bread crumbs and ensure that all sauces and ingredients are gluten-free.
