These Chimichurri Meatballs are a tasty twist on the classic dish! Juicy meatballs are mixed with fresh herbs and spices, giving them a vibrant flavor that’s hard to resist.
Making these is like throwing a little party in the kitchen! I love serving them with pasta, but honestly, they’re great on their own too. You’ll want to make extra for sure! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I love using a mix of beef and pork for these meatballs, but you can stick with all beef if you prefer. Ground turkey or chicken also works well for a lighter version.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds a fresh touch, but feel free to swap in cilantro if that’s your style. You can even use other herbs like oregano or basil for a different flavor profile!
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional, but it adds richness. If you want to keep it dairy-free, you can leave it out or use a vegan cheese substitute.
Chili: Adjust the heat level to your liking. If you dislike spicy food, you can skip the fresh chili or use just a pinch of chili flakes.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Tender and Juicy?
One of the keys to tender meatballs is to mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing can make them tough. Here’s what to do:
- In a large bowl, combine your ingredients without overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into uniform balls. This ensures even cooking.
- Cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam them instead of browning.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the meatballs for that nice golden crust!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have tender, flavorful meatballs paired with vibrant chimichurri sauce! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Chimichurri Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin (optional, for a slight smoky flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili or 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust heat to taste)
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to cook. You’ll be enjoying these flavorful meatballs in about 35 to 40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped parsley, minced garlic, onion, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese (if you’re including it), egg, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Remember, don’t overmix; we want these meatballs to stay tender!
2. Form the Meatballs:
With the mixture ready, shape it into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You can place them on a plate or a tray; just make sure they’re not touching each other.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs, cooking them in batches for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them occasionally, so all sides get nicely browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Chimichurri Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the finely chopped parsley, cilantro (if using), minced garlic, chopped chili or red chili flakes, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If using lemon juice, add that as well! Stir everything well to combine.
5. Combine:
Now, take your beautifully cooked meatballs and place them in a serving dish. Spoon the chimichurri sauce generously over the top. Let them sit for a few minutes so the meatballs can soak up all that delicious sauce!
6. Serve:
Serve these tantalizing chimichurri meatballs warm and garnish with extra fresh parsley. They pair perfectly with crusty bread, rice, or pasta. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dish that combines juicy meatballs with the fresh herbal zest of chimichurri!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for the Meatballs?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground pork, turkey, or chicken to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might need a little extra moisture, so consider adding a bit more olive oil or egg.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chimichurri meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully! Alternatively, you can freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
What Should I Serve with Chimichurri Meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile! They pair wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or pasta. You can also serve them over a bed of greens or with roasted vegetables for a lighter meal.
