Scalloped Meatballs

Savory and Creamy Scalloped Meatballs Recipe with Carrots and Potatoes

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Scalloped meatballs are a delicious and comforting dish that combines juicy meatballs with creamy sauce and tender vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

The origins of scalloped meatballs are a bit unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States as a way to make a hearty and satisfying meal using simple ingredients. This dish has since become a popular comfort food in many households.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground beef
1 egg
0.5 cup bread crumbs
1 tsp salt
0.5 cup chopped onion
0.33 cup milk
0.5 tsp thyme
1 cup cubed carrots
2 cups cubed potatoes
1 cup sour cream
1 can cream of mushroom soup
0.5 tsp paprika

How to prepare

Combine the first 7 ingredients.
Roll the mixture into balls.
Brown the balls in 1 tbsp of margarine.
Parboil the carrots and potatoes in a small amount of water for 5 minutes.
Drain the water.
Combine the sour cream, soup, and paprika.
Place the meatballs in a casserole dish.
Add the carrots and potatoes, then top with the soup mixture.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 30 minutes.

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add different vegetables such as peas or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the meatballs before baking to add extra flavor.

- Parboiling the carrots and potatoes ensures that they are cooked through by the time the dish is finished baking.

- Feel free to customize the seasonings and vegetables to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the scalloped meatballs with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meatballs before baking helps to seal in the juices and adds a nice crust to the outside.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Italian breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and assemble the dish right before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the scalloped meatballs with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

Contains dairy and gluten.

Summary

Scalloped meatballs are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Scalloped meatballs are a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With a creamy sauce, tender vegetables, and juicy meatballs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was a cold winter evening and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for a cozy dinner. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of her scalloped meatballs filled the room and my mouth started watering. Margaret greeted me with a warm smile and told me that she had a special treat for dinner that night.

As we chatted and caught up on each other's lives, Margaret started to prepare the scalloped meatballs. I watched in awe as she expertly formed the meatballs and browned them in a skillet. The smell of the sizzling meat mixed with the herbs and spices was intoxicating. I couldn't wait to taste the final dish.

After the meatballs were browned, Margaret placed them in a casserole dish and covered them with a rich tomato sauce. She then sprinkled them with a generous amount of cheese and popped the dish into the oven. The cheese bubbled and melted, creating a golden crust on top of the meatballs.

When the dish was finally ready, Margaret served it to me with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. The first bite of the scalloped meatballs was pure bliss. The meat was tender and juicy, the sauce was savory and flavorful, and the cheese added a delicious richness to the dish. I couldn't believe how delicious it was.

I begged Margaret for the recipe, and she happily shared it with me. She told me that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was grateful to Margaret for passing on this family heirloom to me, and I couldn't wait to try making it myself.

I went home that night with the recipe in hand, eager to recreate the delicious scalloped meatballs. I gathered all the ingredients and followed Margaret's instructions to the letter. The house filled with the mouthwatering aroma of the cooking meatballs, and I knew I was on the right track.

When the dish was finally ready, I sat down to enjoy it. The first bite took me back to Margaret's kitchen, with the rich flavors and comforting warmth of the dish enveloping me. I was so proud of myself for successfully making the scalloped meatballs, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the scalloped meatballs countless times. I have served them to friends and family, who have all raved about the dish. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own touches and variations to make it truly my own.

I have also shared the recipe with others, just as Margaret shared it with me. I have passed it on to my children and grandchildren, who have all embraced it with the same enthusiasm and joy that I did. It has become a beloved family recipe, a reminder of the love and warmth that can be shared through food.

I am grateful to Margaret for introducing me to the scalloped meatballs recipe. It has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a dish that I will continue to make and share for years to come. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that cold winter evening in Margaret's kitchen, and the excitement and anticipation that filled me as I first laid eyes on this delicious recipe.