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Marry Me Meatballs

Marry Me Meatballs

These creamy, savory Marry Me Meatballs are made with tender chicken and pork simmered in a rich sun-dried tomato Parmesan cream sauce. A restaurant-worthy dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for date night — guaranteed to impress!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely grated
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 0.5 lb ground pork
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes adjust for spice preference
  • 0.5 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 tbsp fresh thyme leaves or ½ tsp dried thyme
  • Kosher salt to taste
For the Sauce
  • 3 tbsp tomato oil (from sun-dried tomatoes), divided
  • 0.5 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 0.75 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 0.75 cup low-sodium vegetable broth (or water)
  • 0.75 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 0.25 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 tbsp fresh thyme leaves or ½ tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, torn

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture
    In a large bowl, combine egg, garlic, ground chicken, ground pork, breadcrumbs, red pepper flakes, Parmesan, thyme, and salt. Mix gently just until combined for tender meatballs.
  2. Step 2: Shape and Chill
    Roll mixture into tablespoon-sized balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 5 minutes to firm up.
  3. Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
    Heat 2 tablespoons tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides for about 6–7 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Step 4: Build the Flavor Base
    In the same skillet, heat remaining oil and sauté onion and sun-dried tomatoes with a pinch of salt for 7 minutes. Stir in thyme and cook 1 minute more.
  5. Step 5: Make the Sauce
    Pour in broth and cream, scraping up browned bits. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan.
  6. Step 6: Combine and Finish
    Return meatballs and juices to the skillet. Simmer 5 minutes until cooked through. Stir in basil and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with pasta or rice.

Notes

For a spicier version, add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne. To make gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a lighter sauce, swap cream for half-and-half or coconut cream. Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice — perfect for date night!