Description
Meatballs with Creamy Cheese Sauce and Crispy Bacon
This indulgent dish of meatballs topped with a rich cheese sauce and crispy bacon is a crowd-pleaser! It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3-4 strips of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Form into 12-15 meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning them to ensure they’re browned on all sides. Transfer the meatballs to a baking dish.
Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Once heated, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the meatballs in the baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through.
Add the Bacon: Once out of the oven, top the meatballs with the crumbled crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Enjoy these rich and savory meatballs with creamy cheese sauce and bacon! They’re guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Roll the mixture into uniform, 1.5-inch meatballs (about 12-15).
3. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, turning to sear all sides. They will finish cooking in the oven.
4. Remove the meatballs to a plate. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Let it warm for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted into a smooth sauce. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the cheese sauce. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these decadent meatballs directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation. They pair perfectly with simple sides that balance the richness: buttery mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a crisp green salad. For a low-carb option, try them over steamed cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Garnish with extra crumbled bacon and fresh parsley.
How-to Summary
Combine beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings to form meatballs. Pan-sear until browned. Create a simple cheese sauce with cream, cheddar, and mozzarella in the same pan. Combine meatballs and sauce, then bake until cooked through. Finish with crispy bacon and parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely. A mix of beef and pork (or Italian sausage) adds great flavor. For leaner meatballs, use ground turkey or chicken, but add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mix to prevent dryness.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin, create a slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Whisk it into the simmering cream sauce before adding the cheese.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the meatballs and sauce in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Freeze the cooked meatballs and cheese sauce separately for best results. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat together in a skillet or oven until bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the meatball ingredients, as this leads to tough, dense meatballs. Do not skip the browning step—it builds crucial flavor. When making the cheese sauce, keep the heat low to medium-low to prevent the cream from scalding or the cheese from becoming grainy. Always use freshly shredded cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce less smooth.
Conclusion
This recipe for meatballs with creamy cheese sauce and crispy bacon delivers maximum comfort and flavor with straightforward steps. It’s a versatile dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a perfectly rich, savory, and satisfying meal every time. Enjoy the delicious results!