These chimichurri meatballs are bursting with flavor! Made with juicy ground meat and a fresh, zesty chimichurri sauce, they’re perfect for any meal.
They’re so tasty that you might just want to eat them all at once! I love serving them with spaghetti or on a sub for a fun twist. Yummy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I recommend using a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but you can use Panko for a lighter texture. If you’re gluten-free, try crushed oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: While it adds a nice flavor, you can skip it or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Grated pecorino is also a tasty substitute!
Fresh Herbs: For chimichurri, use fresh parsley, as it’s key for flavor. If you don’t have oregano, basil or cilantro can work in a pinch, but they’ll change the taste a bit.
How Do You Ensure the Meatballs Are Tender?
To keep your meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Overworking the meat can make them tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Form the meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. This helps them cook evenly.
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough when you add the meatballs. This gives them a nice browning.
- Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than browning.
Enjoy making these chimichurri meatballs! They’re a fresh twist that everyone will love!
Chimichurri Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for some heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, packed
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook. So, you can have a delicious meal ready in around 40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, combine parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Pulse a few times to chop the ingredients. While the machine is running, slowly add the olive oil and red wine vinegar until everything is well combined but still slightly chunky. Set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld together.
2. Make the Meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, form the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate as you go to make frying easier.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook, turning occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes or until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Once done, remove the meatballs and drain them on paper towels.
5. Serve:
Transfer the meatballs to a serving plate and spoon the chimichurri sauce generously over the top. If you like, garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
6. Enjoy:
Serve these delicious chimichurri meatballs warm as an appetizer, over rice, or alongside crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Enjoy the burst of fresh herb flavors!
Enjoy your delicious Chimichurri Meatballs, bursting with fresh herbs and bold flavor!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that these meats can be slightly drier, so consider adding a little extra olive oil or keeping an eye on cooking times to maintain moisture.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Spicier?
If you like a kick of heat, you can increase the amount of chili flakes in the meatball mixture or add crushed red pepper to the chimichurri sauce. You could also incorporate a dash of hot sauce or minced jalapeños for added spice!
Can I Prepare the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the meatballs in advance! After shaping them, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.