Tuscan Parmesan Pillows: A Delightful Italian-Inspired Meat Dish
Total Time: 28 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Servings: 6
Indulge in a taste of Italy with these Tuscan Parmesan Pillows, a delectable meat dish that is both quick to prepare and richly flavorful. Perfectly seasoned ground beef patties are complemented by aromatic garlic, fresh parsley, and the sharp bite of Parmesan cheese. Whether paired with mashed potatoes and green peas or a zesty lemon rice, these pillows are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef round
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and evenly distributed throughout the meat. This step ensures that each bite of your pillows is packed with flavor.
-
Shape the Patties: Form the seasoned meat mixture into twelve equal-sized patties, each about 1 1/4 inches thick. This shaping allows for an even cook and ensures the patties hold their form during frying.
-
Let Rest: Place the formed patties on a plate or tray and let them rest for 15 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and the patties to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle while cooking.
-
Heat the Pan: In a large, heavy nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. The combination of oil and butter provides both flavor and a nonstick surface, creating a crisp and golden exterior on the patties.
-
Cook the Patties: Once the oil and butter are hot, add the patties to the skillet. Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are well browned and no longer pink in the centers. This ensures that they are cooked through while retaining their juicy texture.
-
Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and sprinkle with the remaining chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve the Tuscan Parmesan Pillows with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze the lemon juice over the patties just before eating to add a delightful zesty contrast.
These Tuscan Parmesan Pillows are not only delicious but also fit perfectly into a busy lifestyle, with a total preparation and cooking time of just under 30 minutes. Enjoy them as a flavorful main course that pairs beautifully with your choice of sides. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a special occasion, they are sure to be a hit!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 357.4
- Fat Content: 26g
- Saturated Fat Content: 11.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 96.9mg
- Sodium Content: 541.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 1.6g
- Fiber Content: 0.3g
- Sugar Content: 0.2g
- Protein Content: 27.8g
Enjoy your culinary journey with these Italian-inspired Tuscan Parmesan Pillows, and savor the blend of rich flavors and satisfying textures. Buon appetito! 🌟🍴
