Introduction
Who doesn't love meatballs? They’re the comforting, bite-sized wonders that are perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a party appetizer. But what if you could make a giant version that’s easier to prepare and even more satisfying?
Enter the Giant Lazy Meatballs — a massive, meaty dish that brings all the deliciousness of traditional meatballs but without the usual fuss. No more rolling out dozens of tiny balls or standing over the stove frying them one by one. With these Giant Lazy Meatballs, you can enjoy all the comfort and flavor of meatballs with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
To make these juicy, flavorful meatballs, you don’t need anything too fancy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds of ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (for browning)
- 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. The next step is crucial: add the milk, but do so slowly while mixing to make sure the meat mixture stays moist and not too wet.
Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a spoon. The goal is to ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat. Don’t overwork the mixture to avoid tough meatballs, though — you just want everything combined well.
Step 2: Form the Giant Meatball
Now, for the fun part: forming the meatball. Instead of making individual small meatballs, you’re going to form one giant meatball! Take a large baking dish or oven-safe skillet (a 9x13-inch baking dish works well) and lightly grease it with olive oil or nonstick spray.
Scoop the meatball mixture into your hands, and form it into one large, football-shaped ball. Aim for a meatball that’s about 8-10 inches in diameter. Place it in the center of the baking dish.
Step 3: Brown the Meatball
While the meatball will eventually bake in the oven, browning it first will add extra flavor and help seal in the juices. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently place the giant meatball into the pan. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, turning carefully with tongs or a spatula. You want a nice golden-brown crust on all sides.
Step 4: Bake the Meatball
Once the meatball is browned, transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake it for 40-45 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. This ensures the meatball is cooked through while staying juicy and tender.
Step 5: Add the Marinara Sauce
After baking, remove the meatball from the oven and carefully pour the marinara sauce over the top. Return the meatball to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through and meld with the meatball.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the meatball is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it into thick, hearty wedges and serve with a garnish of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. These giant meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti, crusty bread, or even a side of roasted vegetables.
Why Are These Meatballs So "Lazy"?
The beauty of these Giant Lazy Meatballs is how easy they are to make compared to the traditional method of rolling dozens of smaller meatballs. Instead of painstakingly rolling each ball by hand, you simply shape one giant meatball, brown it, bake it, and top it with sauce. It’s the ultimate no-fuss dinner that’s guaranteed to impress. The effort involved is minimal, and the flavor payoff is huge!
Variations
While the classic version of Giant Lazy Meatballs is already packed with flavor, there are plenty of ways you can customize this dish to fit your preferences:
- Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: For a cheesy surprise, make a well in the center of the meatball and stuff it with mozzarella or provolone before baking.
- Spicy Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Veggie Version: If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using plant-based meat substitutes or make a combination of finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant for a hearty veggie meatball.
- Herbed Meatballs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to change the flavor profile.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
- Don't Overmix: When you combine the ingredients, mix them just enough to combine. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, high-quality beef, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Rest the Meatball: Letting the giant meatball rest for a few minutes after baking helps it retain its juices and makes slicing easier.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the meatball adds a rich, deep flavor that you won’t get if you skip this step.
FAQ
1. Can I make these meatballs in advance? Yes, you can! Make the meatball mixture, shape it into the giant ball, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to add a little extra baking time if baking from cold.
2. Can I freeze the meatball? Absolutely. You can freeze the unbaked giant meatball by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To cook from frozen, bake it at 375°F for about 50-55 minutes, then add the sauce and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes.
3. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! You can substitute ground pork, turkey, chicken, or even a combination of different meats to suit your tastes.
4. How do I know when the meatball is done? The best way to know is by checking the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef to ensure it’s fully cooked. Alternatively, you can slice it open and check that it’s no longer pink in the center.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply swap out the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative or use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. You can also use almond flour or oat flour for a low-carb version.
Conclusion
These Giant Lazy Meatballs are a game-changer in the world of meatball recipes. With their rich flavor, juicy texture, and minimal prep time, they’re perfect for any busy night when you want a comforting, satisfying meal with less hassle. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a hearty dinner with family, these meatballs are sure to become a new favorite. So, give them a try, and enjoy the big, bold flavors with a whole lot of lazy!
إرسال تعليق