Description
Comforting Creamy Meatballs
Experience comfort in every bite with these creamy basil meatballs! Juicy meatballs in a fragrant, creamy sauce that’s perfect for cozy family dinners.
This easy recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try and tell us your thoughts!
Ingredients:
1 lb ground meat
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt, pepper, and fresh basil
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Mix meat, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, and basil.
Form into meatballs, brown in skillet.
Pour in cream and broth, cook until thickened.
Garnish with basil and enjoy.
#ComfortKitchen
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine 1 lb of ground meat, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This ensures uniform cooking.
3. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding. Brown them on all sides for about 6-8 minutes total. They do not need to be cooked through at this stage.
4. Reduce the heat to medium. Carefully pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth, gently stirring to combine with the skillet drippings.
5. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, turning the meatballs occasionally, until the sauce has thickened nicely and the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Serving Suggestions
These creamy basil meatballs are incredibly versatile. For a classic comfort meal, serve them over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or creamy polenta to soak up the delicious sauce. They also pair wonderfully with steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad to add a fresh contrast. For a complete Italian-inspired dinner, accompany them with crusty garlic bread.
How-to Summary
Combine meatball ingredients, form into balls, and brown in a skillet. Simmer in a sauce of heavy cream and chicken broth until cooked through and the sauce is thickened. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely. Ground beef, pork, turkey, chicken, or a blend all work well. Adjust cooking time slightly for leaner meats like turkey to prevent drying out.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin after simmering, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Whisk it into the simmering sauce and cook for another 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare and brown the meatballs, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat them in the cream and broth sauce.
What can I use instead of fresh basil?
You can substitute with 2 teaspoons of dried basil added to the meat mixture. For the garnish, fresh parsley makes a good alternative, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and may not thicken as much. Full-fat coconut milk is a good dairy-free alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meat: This compacts the proteins, leading to tough, dense meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Crowding the Skillet: Adding too many meatballs at once steams them instead of browning. Cook in batches for a perfect sear.
- Using Cold Cream Directly from the Fridge: Adding very cold cream to a hot pan can cause it to curdle. Let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before use.
- Boiling the Sauce: After adding the liquids, maintain a gentle simmer. A rolling boil can break the cream sauce and overcook the meatballs.
Conclusion
This creamy basil meatball recipe is the epitome of a satisfying, home-cooked meal that comes together with minimal fuss. The combination of juicy, herb-infused meatballs and a luxuriously creamy sauce is guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. It’s a dependable recipe that yields impressive results, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend feast. We hope this dish earns a permanent spot in your family’s recipe rotation. Don’t forget to share your creation!
