Description
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines perfectly cooked meatballs with fluffy rice and a delicious tomato sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
- Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Rice: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the oil and onions. Add the broth, salt, and pepper, then bring to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice cook for 18-20 minutes, or until tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the rice is cooking, make the sauce. In a separate saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Combine Meatballs and Rice: Once the rice is cooked, nestle the browned meatballs into the rice, spooning some sauce over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the meatballs and rice hot, with extra sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Meatballs, Rice, Italian Recipe, Comfort Food