Hearty Brussels Meatballs are the kind of dish that warms your heart and fills your belly with pure joy. Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender meatball, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate like a merry jig at a family reunion. The aromatic blend of herbs and spices mingles with the savory goodness of Brussels sprouts, creating an experience that is nothing short of magical.
Whenever I whip up these Hearty Brussels Meatballs, I can’t help but think back to the family gatherings where we’d gather around a table overflowing with laughter and love. It’s the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or festive celebrations, promising a flavor explosion that leaves everyone eager for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Hearty Brussels Meatballs are not only packed with flavor but also super easy to prepare
- Their vibrant presentation makes them a showstopper at any dinner table
- You can customize them to fit your taste preferences, whether you prefer classic Italian flavors or spicy kicks
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress without the stress
Ingredients for Hearty Brussels Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option while still keeping those juicy meatballs.
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh sprouts add a unique crunch and flavor; look for firm, bright green ones.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs together.
Eggs: One large egg will act as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness; freshly grated works best for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the overall taste profile—who can resist that aroma?
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also freshness to the dish.
For the Sauce:
Tomato Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade for that personal touch.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of quality olive oil brings everything together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Hearty Brussels Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you get everything ready. This ensures those meatballs cook evenly and develop that glorious golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped Brussels sprouts, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix it all together until just combined—don’t overdo it; no one wants tough meatballs!
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands (get in there—it’s therapeutic), form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper so they don’t stick.
Step 4: Bake Those Beauties
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they’re cooked through and golden brown. You might want to do a little happy dance while waiting; trust me, it helps.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
While those heavenly meatballs are baking away, heat some olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add tomato sauce and let it simmer gently until warmed through—about five minutes should do.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Once the meatballs are done baking (and you’ve managed not to eat half of them), transfer them onto plates and drizzle with warm tomato sauce for that perfect finishing touch. Voilà! Dinner is served!
These Hearty Brussels Meatballs are more than just food—they’re memories waiting to be made around your dining table. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- These Hearty Brussels Meatballs are a delightful combination of flavors and textures
- Packed with nutritious Brussels sprouts, they make an excellent choice for a cozy dinner
- Easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion, these meatballs will surely impress your family and friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you chop the Brussels sprouts. Mix the meatball ingredients in a bowl, form them into balls, and then bake until golden. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and saves you time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground meat for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Throw in some grated cheese or mix in chopped herbs to give your Hearty Brussels Meatballs a flavor twist that suits your palate.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Hearty Brussels Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring they retain their deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Hearty Brussels Meatballs, ensure your mixture is well-combined but not overworked
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor and adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences
- Let them rest after cooking for better texture
Sometimes I can’t believe how quickly my family devours these Hearty Brussels Meatballs! They’re always asking me to make them again, and honestly, who can resist that savory goodness?
FAQs :
What are Hearty Brussels Meatballs made of?
Hearty Brussels Meatballs typically consist of ground meat, often a mix of beef and pork, combined with finely chopped Brussels sprouts for a unique texture and flavor. Additional ingredients include breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, and various herbs and spices that enhance the overall taste. avocado pasta salad These meatballs are not only delicious but also provide a nutritious twist by incorporating vegetables. cheesy pasta skillet The combination results in a satisfying dish that can be served with pasta, rice, or nestled in a sub.
How do you cook Hearty Brussels Meatballs?
Cooking Hearty Brussels Meatballs is simple and can be done in several ways. You can bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until they are cooked through and golden brown. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them for a crispy exterior or simmer them in a sauce on the stovetop. Regardless of the method chosen, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. Each method brings out different flavors and textures. For more inspiration, check out this creamy mushroom and asparagus penne recipe.
Can I make Hearty Brussels Meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing Hearty Brussels Meatballs ahead of time is a great idea for meal planning. You can mix the ingredients and shape the meatballs in advance, then store them in the refrigerator for up to two days or freeze them for longer storage. When ready to cook, simply thaw if frozen and follow your preferred cooking method. This not only saves time during busy weekdays but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What dishes pair well with Hearty Brussels Meatballs?
Hearty Brussels Meatballs pair well with a variety of dishes. For a comforting meal, try serving them over spaghetti with marinara sauce or alongside creamy mashed potatoes. They also work great in subs with melted cheese or as part of a hearty stew. perfect side for meatballs Additionally, consider pairing them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness. fresh kale salad The versatility of these meatballs makes them suitable for many occasions.
Conclusion for Hearty Brussels Meatballs :
Hearty Brussels Meatballs offer a delicious blend of flavors while incorporating nutritious vegetables into your meals. With simple ingredients like ground meat and Brussels sprouts, they make an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prep. Easy to cook and versatile in serving options, these meatballs will surely become a favorite at your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sauces or side dishes to complement this delightful recipe! For more inspiration, check out this honey garlic butter roasted carrots recipe.
Hearty Brussels Meatballs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hearty Brussels Meatballs are a comforting dish that combines juicy ground beef with finely chopped Brussels sprouts, creating a flavorful bite that’s perfect for any occasion. These meatballs are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Top them with a warm tomato sauce for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup finely chopped Brussels sprouts (about 8–10 sprouts)
- 1/2 cup plain or Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Brussels sprouts, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- While baking, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add tomato sauce and simmer for about five minutes.
- Serve the meatballs drizzled with warm tomato sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
