Braised Meatballs in Red Wine Gravy for Your Next Dinner Party

Introduction

If you want to impress your guests at your next dinner party, look no further! Braised Meatballs in Red Wine Gravy is the perfect dish to showcase your culinary skills. This recipe combines rich flavors with tender textures, making it a standout choice for any gathering. Plus, who doesn’t love a hearty meatball dish?

Ingredients

Ingredients for Savor the Richness: Braised Meatballs in Red Wine Gravy for Your Next Dinner Party

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for this recipe. Here’s what you will need:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Timing

Time management is key in the kitchen! Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Braised Meatballs in Red Wine Gravy:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t be shy; get your hands in there!

2. Shape the Meatballs

Once mixed, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking.

3. Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

4. Prepare the Gravy

In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add tomato paste and cook for another minute. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, scraping up the delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring this mixture to a simmer.

5. Braise the Meatballs

Return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let them braise in the gravy for about 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens! The meatballs will absorb all that rich flavor.

Nutritional Information

Curious about the nutritional value? Here’s a quick overview per serving:

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten the dish? Here are some healthier alternatives:

  • Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork.
  • Swap breadcrumbs for oats or quinoa for extra fiber.
  • Choose a low-sodium beef broth to reduce salt intake.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering how to serve these delectable meatballs? Here are some ideas:

  • Serve the meatballs over pasta or polenta for a comforting meal.
  • Pair them with crusty bread to soak up the gravy.
  • Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan for a pop of color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks make mistakes! Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Don’t skip browning the meatballs; it adds flavor.
  • Avoid overcrowding the skillet; it prevents even cooking.
  • Make sure to let the meatballs braise long enough for maximum flavor.

Storage Tips

Planning to save leftovers? Here’s how to store them properly:

  • Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing.
  • Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Braised Meatballs in Red Wine Gravy is a dish that will surely wow your dinner guests. With its rich flavors and tender meatballs, it’s a recipe that deserves a spot in your cooking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t regret it!

Print
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Braised Meatballs in Red Wine Gravy for Your Next Dinner Party

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Delicious braised meatballs simmered in a rich red wine gravy.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper; mix well.
  2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5 minutes and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion until translucent, add tomato paste, then pour in red wine and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and braise in the gravy for about 30 minutes.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, let the meatballs sit in the fridge for an hour before cooking.
  • Serve with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the gravy.
  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Braising
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Omnivore

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 meatball with gravy
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the meatballs a day in advance. Just reheat them in the gravy before serving.

What kind of wine should I use?

Using a dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works best. Avoid sweet wines, as they can alter the flavor profile.

Can I use a meat substitute?

Yes! You can use plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

Braising meatballs in red wine gravy is a delightful way to elevate your dinner party. Everyone will savor the richness of this dish, and it might even become a family favorite. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and prepare to impress!

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