Marry Me Meatballs
30 Minutes
American
Serves: 3-4
Indulgent, creamy, and bursting with flavor, these Marry Me Meatballs are a delicious American–Italian fusion twist on the viral classic. Tender chicken and pork meatballs are browned and simmered in a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, flavored with thyme, garlic, and Parmesan. Served over Royal® Ready-to-Heat Basmati Rice, this dish becomes an effortless weeknight favorite with the perfect balance of comfort and elegance.
Ingredients
- 1 large egg, beaten to blend
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- 1/2 lb. ground pork
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan, divided
- 2 tsp. dried thyme, divided
- Kosher salt
- 3/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, plus 3 Tbsp. tomato oil, divided
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 Tbsp. torn fresh basil
- Royal RTH Basmati Rice, for serving
Preparation
- In a large bowl, using a rubber spatula, combine egg, garlic, chicken, pork, bread crumbs, red pepper flakes, 1/2 cup Parmesan, 1 tsp of thyme, and 1 teaspoon salt until combined.
- Portion meat mixture into balls about 1 tablespoon each (mixture will be wet so spray hand with oil if needed) and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 5 minutes to help them set.
- In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons tomato oil. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer meatballs to a plate.
- In the same skillet over medium-high heat, heat remaining 1 tablespoon tomato oil. Add onion and sun-dried tomatoes; season with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened, about 7 minutes.
- Add remaining thyme and cook, stirring, until warmed through, about 1 minute more. Stir in broth, then cream. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan and add the meatballs back to the skillet. Top with basil and serve over Royal Basmati Rice. Enjoy!
