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Hearty Meatball Stew: A Comforting One-Pot Dinner


  • Author: rodrigo Stone
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A cozy and flavorful stew featuring tender meatballs simmered with hearty vegetables in a rich, savory broth—perfect for family dinners or a comforting weeknight meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 carrots, sliced

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 2 medium potatoes, cubed

  • 4 cups beef broth

  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley for garnish


Instructions

  • In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently and form into 1-inch meatballs.

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.

  • In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened.

  • Add potatoes, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

  • Return meatballs to the pot. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes until vegetables are tender and meatballs are fully cooked.

  • Remove bay leaf, adjust seasonings, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use a mix of beef and pork.

  • Add a splash of red wine when sautéing vegetables for depth.

  • Can be made ahead; flavors improve overnight.

  • To thicken, stir in a cornstarch slurry at the end of cooking.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes