Introduction: This delicious recipe is perfect for a family meal, and it’s sure to become a hit at any gathering. With everyone from the grandkids to grandpa loving it, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and irresistible. The kids couldn’t get enough, and grandpa even managed to devour three servings! Let’s dive into this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (or chicken/turkey for a leaner version)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your favorite variety)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or chicken/turkey), chopped onion, minced garlic, grated cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Form into patties: Shape the meat mixture into small patties or meatballs, depending on your preference (about the size of a golf ball).
Fry the patties: Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Simmer in sauce: After frying, place the cooked patties into a saucepan and cover with marinara sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Serve: Once they are done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or pasta. Enjoy!
Description:
These savory, tender patties are a true crowd-pleaser. The blend of savory beef, cheese, and Italian herbs, all simmered in rich marinara sauce, will have everyone asking for more. Perfect for family dinners, this dish balances comfort food with a little bit of indulgence, and with the way the grandkids devoured it, you can be sure this will become a regular on the dinner table.
Tips:
Freezing: You can make extra patties and freeze them for later. Simply freeze them uncooked, and then cook from frozen. Just increase the cooking time slightly.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
Extra Veggies: For an extra healthy kick, add finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
Cooking Method: If you prefer, you can bake the patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes for a lighter option.
Variations:
Vegetarian Version: Swap out the meat for a plant-based option like lentils, chickpeas, or a veggie burger patty mix. Just ensure to adjust seasoning as needed.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick, or serve with a spicy marinara sauce.
Pasta Topping: Serve these savory patties on top of a plate of spaghetti for an easy Italian-inspired dinner.
Corrections:
If the mixture is too loose or wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help it bind together.
If you don’t have marinara sauce, a can of crushed tomatoes can work as a substitute; just season with some extra garlic, salt, and herbs.
Adjust cooking times for larger or smaller patties, as thicker ones will need more time to cook through.
Enjoy:
Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a big Sunday feast, this dish is sure to bring smiles to every face around the table. With grandpa eating three of them and the grandkids wanting seconds, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!