In this easy marry me meatballs recipe, meatballs are simmered in a sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s guaranteed to impress! Rich, savory, and just the right amount of indulgent, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner at home or a special occasion.
120 oz. package of frozen meatballsI used Trader Joe's Party Size Mini Meatballs
1 1/4cupchicken stock or broth
1tsp. corn starch
1tbsp.olive oil
4clovesfresh garlic, finely choppedthe best garlic chopper!
3/4cupheavy cream
1/2cup Parmesan cheese + more for serving, grated
1 1/2tspAglio Olio seasoning (from Trader Joe's)can sub Italian seasoning (See Note 1)
1/2tsp.onion powder
1/2tsp. sea salt or kosher salta bit more if you aren't using the Aglio Olio seasoning
17-8 oz.jar of sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained well and chopped
1/2cup fresh basil, chopped
rice or pasta for serving
Instructions
Cook Meatballs: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread meatballs in an even layer on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes (or warmed through - it will depend on the size of the meatballs). When the meatballs are done, remove from the oven and set aside.
Make the sauce: While the meatballs are baking, make the sauce. Whisk broth and 1 tsp cornstarch, and set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. When the oil is hot, add garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Add chicken broth/cornstarch mixture, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer. Then reduce heat, and simmer for 3-4 minutes until bubbly and the sauce begins to thicken.
Season: Season the sauce with onion powder, Aglio Olio (or Italian) seasoning, and salt. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and cooked meatballs. Spoon the sauce over the meatballs so the meatballs are covered with the sauce. Cook 3-4 minutes more.
Finish: Spoon the meatballs and sauce over rice (or pasta) and garnish with more basil and Parmesan cheese, if you like.
Notes
Note 1: You can buy Aglio Olio seasoning at Trader Joe's or on Amazon. You can also substitute Italian seasoning. If you do end up using Italian seasoning, you may need to season the sauce with a bit more salt at the end (about 1/2 tsp. or to taste).