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Hearty Meatball Stew Recipe for Cozy Nights

Name: Hearty Meatball Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 medium potatoes, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on March 24, 2025

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Imagine a chilly evening where the comforting aroma of meatball stew wafts through your home, wrapping you in warmth like your favorite blanket on a winter day. Each spoonful is a delightful explosion of flavors—savory meatballs swimming in a rich broth packed with vegetables—guaranteeing to chase away any dreary mood.

This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories. Picture yourself gathered around the dinner table with loved ones, laughter mingling with the delicious scents as everyone digs into a steaming bowl of goodness. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday or an impromptu weeknight gathering, this meatball stew is sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation makes this stew a fantastic weeknight dish
Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s visually appealing too!
Customize ingredients based on preferences or pantry staples for versatility
This hearty meal warms not just your stomach but also your heart

I still remember my family’s delighted reactions when I served this meatball stew at our last game night!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Choose high-quality beef for juicy meatballs; lean options work too if you prefer less fat.
Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture; they help keep those meatballs moist and tender.
Eggs: One egg binds everything together perfectly; think of it as the glue holding your culinary masterpiece!
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds brightness; don’t skip it unless you’re allergic to happiness.
Carrots: These add natural sweetness and color; chop them small so they cook evenly in the stew.
Potatoes: Diced potatoes give heartiness to the stew; use any variety you prefer—russets work wonders.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes for easy blending into the broth; they bring acidity and moisture.
Beef Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control salt levels; it’s the base that makes everything sing!
Onions and Garlic: Sautéed onions and garlic create a flavorful foundation; these aromatic friends are essential!
Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Don’t skimp here—season generously to elevate taste; spices are your best buddies.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper until well blended. Don’t overmix or your meatballs will be tough!

Shape Into Balls: Form the mixture into bite-sized balls about 1 inch wide—this keeps cooking time reasonable while ensuring every bite is juicy.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent and fragrant. Toss in minced garlic until it’s golden brown but not burnt!

Add Vegetables: Stir in diced carrots and potatoes next. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until slightly softened; this step adds depth to your flavor profile.

Combine With Broth: Pour in canned tomatoes along with beef broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil before lowering heat to simmer—the magic begins now!

Cook Meatballs: Gently drop your prepared meatballs into the simmering broth. Cook for 30-40 minutes until they’re cooked through; resist the urge to stir too much!

Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice; enjoy every savory bite!

This hearty meatball stew recipe is not just dinner—it’s comfort food at its best!

You Must Know

This hearty meatball stew not only warms your belly but also fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma
A perfect dish for gatherings, it fosters conversations and laughter, making it a beloved family recipe
You can easily adapt it based on seasonal ingredients or preferences

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meatballs for that lovely crust, then sauté your vegetables while they cook. Combine everything in a pot and let simmer to meld those delicious flavors together.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like zucchini or spinach. Spice it up with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added depth and personality.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfectly tender meatballs, don’t overmix the meat; this keeps them juicy
Always taste your broth before serving, adjusting seasoning as necessary to enhance flavor
For a thicker stew, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking for extra richness

Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about that one dinner party where my friends devoured my meatball stew like it was their last meal. Their compliments still make me blush!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I serve with meatball stew?

Meatball stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rice. These sides soak up all that flavorful broth and elevate the meal experience.

Can I freeze meatball stew?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers for up to three months of storage.

How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?

Use breadcrumbs and an egg as binders; this will help maintain their shape while cooking. Avoid overly mixing the meat as well!