Smothered Meatballs Recipe 🍽️
Description: Make and share this delectable Smothered Meatballs recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. This kid-friendly dish, ready in less than an hour, is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Each tender meatball is smothered in a rich, savory sauce, making it an irresistible comfort food that everyone will love.
Category: Meat
Keywords: Kid Friendly, Less than 60 Minutes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 408.5 kcal
- Fat Content: 25.8 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 8.9 g
- Cholesterol Content: 126.5 mg
- Sodium Content: 733.3 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 16.1 g
- Fiber Content: 0.7 g
- Sugar Content: 2.1 g
- Protein Content: 26.4 g
Servings: 8
Ingredients 🛒
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 2 eggs
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cans of condensed soup (such as cream of mushroom or tomato, based on preference)
- Hot noodles (for serving)
Instructions 📋
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Preparation:
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Prepping everything in advance will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. 🧑🍳
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Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef with 1 cup of bread crumbs. Crack 2 eggs into the bowl, add 2/3 cup of milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix in the finely chopped onions.
- Mix thoroughly using your hands or a sturdy spoon until all the ingredients are well integrated and the mixture is consistent.
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Shape into Meatballs:
- Once the mixture is well-combined, shape it into small, evenly sized meatballs. Aim for around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter for each meatball to ensure they cook evenly. 🏀
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Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the meatballs to the hot oil and brown them on all sides. This step will take about 8-10 minutes.
- Make sure to turn the meatballs gently to get an even browning. Use tongs or a spatula for this task. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
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Add the Soup:
- After browning the meatballs and draining the excess fat, add 2 cans of condensed soup directly into the skillet with the meatballs. The soup will serve as a delicious, creamy sauce that smothers the meatballs.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the meatballs are evenly coated with the sauce. 🍲
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Cook the Noodles:
- While the meatballs are simmering, cook your noodles according to the package instructions. Any type of noodle works well with this dish, but egg noodles are particularly delightful. Make sure they are hot and ready to serve as the meatballs finish cooking.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the meatballs are tender and fully cooked, serve them hot over a bed of freshly cooked noodles. Ladle extra sauce over the top for maximum flavor. Garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. 🌿🍝
Cooking Times ⏰
| Preparation Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 20 minutes | 50 minutes |
Tips and Variations 📝
- For Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the meatball mixture.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different condensed soups. Cream of chicken or golden mushroom soup can offer a tasty twist.
- Healthier Option: Use lean ground beef or a mix of beef and ground turkey for a lower fat content. You can also bake the meatballs in the oven at 375°F for 20 minutes instead of frying to reduce the amount of oil used.
- Make Ahead: These meatballs can be prepared in advance. Shape the meatballs and freeze them raw. When ready to cook, brown them directly from frozen, then proceed with the recipe. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights!
Pairing Suggestions 🍷
- Side Dishes: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the rich flavors of the meatballs.
- Bread: Freshly baked garlic bread or a crusty baguette can help soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite a delight.
- Wine: Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a robust Italian Chianti for an exquisite dining experience. 🍷
Kid-Friendly Touches 👶
- Cheese, Please!: Kids love cheese. Consider sprinkling some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the meatballs right before serving.
- Dipping Fun: Serve the sauce on the side as a dip for a fun twist that might appeal to younger children.
- Mini Meatballs: Make smaller meatballs that are perfect for little hands and easier to eat.
Leftovers and Storage 🍱
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked meatballs in their sauce. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will be good for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm up on the stovetop or microwave.
Final Thoughts 💭
Smothered Meatballs are more than just a meal; they’re a warm, comforting dish that brings family and friends together around the table. The rich, flavorful sauce paired with tender meatballs and hearty noodles makes this dish a favorite for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a kid-friendly option, or a hearty meal to share with loved ones, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a dish that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your household. Enjoy the process and savor every bite! 🍽️💖
