Ah, let me tell you about the time I first made this incredible Meatball Stew—one of those cold, drizzly days when nothing but a warm bowl of goodness could lift my spirits. I had some ground beef sitting in the fridge, and I decided that meatballs and a hearty stew would be the absolute perfect remedy for the gloomy weather outside. The aroma of the simmering stew filled my kitchen, and before I knew it, the whole house was engulfed in a warm, savory hug. I’m telling you, it’s like a big bowl of comfort that just drapes itself around you!
What I love the most about this stew is not just how easy it is to make, but also how versatile it is. You can play around with the veggies, switch up the meat, or even toss in some herbs you love. It has that effortlessly cozy feel, like none other! So, if you’re in need of a delicious, family-friendly meal that warms the heart (and belly), you’ve landed in the right place!
What’s in The Best Meatball Stew?
Let’s talk about what makes this stew so special and delicious. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role, and trust me, together they create a symphony of flavors.
Ground Beef (or a mix of Beef and Pork): This is the star of the dish! I usually go for a pound of ground beef, but if I’m feeling adventurous, a beef-pork blend adds some richness.
Breadcrumbs: These little gems help bind the meatballs and ensure they’re tender and juicy. I like to use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra flavor punch.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this cheesy goodness elevates the meatballs and adds a savory depth to the stew.
Egg: The secret to a perfect meatball is the egg, which binds all the ingredients together beautifully.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Because who wants to chop and cry when you can just sprinkle in that flavor? They add the perfect aromatic quality with minimal effort!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything to life.
Beef Broth: The base of our stew; I prefer using low-sodium beef broth to keep control over the saltiness.
Tomato Paste: This concentrated version of tomatoes provides richness and deep flavor to the stew.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a hint of umami that elevates the overall taste without being overwhelming.
Vegetables (Potatoes, Carrots, Green Beans, Peas, Red Bell Pepper, Mushrooms): The more veggies, the merrier! They’re not just here for looks; they add tons of nutrients and texture. I often use whatever I have on hand.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle to sauté the meatballs and vegetables—because everything’s better with a bit of healthy fat!
Dried Thyme & Dried Rosemary: These herbs add a wonderful earthy aroma. I’m partial to fresh herbs if they’re in season, but dried works just fine.
Is The Best Meatball Stew Good for You?
You may be wondering if this stew is a healthy option. Well, I’ve got good news! This dish is filled with wholesome ingredients that pack a nutritious punch.
Ground Beef: Rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins. If you’re concerned about extra fat, you could go for a leaner cut or even use turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetables: The colorful array of veggies not only makes your stew visually appealing but also boosts its nutrition. Each veggie brings unique vitamins and minerals to the table (literally!).
Olive Oil: It’s a source of healthy fats, beneficial for heart health when used in moderation.
While this stew can certainly be a healthy comfort food option, it’s always smart to keep an eye on portion sizes and balance it with your daily nutritional needs.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 3 medium potatoes, diced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
*Serves about 6 hearty portions.*
How to Make The Best Meatball Stew?
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined and form into meatballs about 1-inch in diameter. Set those beauties aside while we work on the stew.
2. Grab a large pot or Dutch oven and heat the olive oil over medium heat. When it’s hot, gently add the meatballs in batches (you want to avoid crowding them) and cook until browned all over. Once they’re good and brown, remove them from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, toss in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, green beans, peas, chopped red bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté these beauties for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Now it’s time to add the flavor party! Pour in the beef broth, stir in the tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle in the thyme and rosemary. Don’t forget a bit more salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a simmer.
5. Once that stew is bubbling away, gently add the browned meatballs back into the pot. Cover it up and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
6. Before serving, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, enjoy the warm, hearty goodness of your meatball stew!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for The Best Meatball Stew
Here are some pro tips to level up your stew game:
– **Bread Is Life:** Serve with crusty bread or over a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes for that extra comfort factor.
– **Herb It Up:** Fresh herbs like parsley or basil sprinkled on top just before serving add a lovely burst of freshness to the dish.
– **Make It Your Own:** Feel free to mix and match veggies based on what you have. Zucchini, corn, or even kale can be fabulous additions!
– **Leftover Wonder:** This stew keeps well in the fridge, making for perfect leftovers. It might even taste better the next day as all the flavors marry together!
I’m genuinely excited for you to give this wonderful Meatball Stew a try. There’s something so satisfying about curling up with a bowl of this comforting dish, especially during those chillier evenings. Please let me know how yours turns out! Happy cooking, my friend!
