Have you ever wondered how to create the perfect balance of sweet and savory in a hearty meal? If so, this Meatballs in Sweet and Savory Sauce with Peas and Potatoes recipe is your answer. Imagine juicy meatballs simmering in a flavorful sauce, paired with tender potatoes and vibrant peas, all coming together to deliver a satisfying, family-friendly meal.
This recipe combines familiar ingredients in a new way to create an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a meal for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and comforting appeal.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know to prepare this dish, including step-by-step instructions, tips, and nutritional information. Let’s dive into how to make Meatballs in Sweet and Savory Sauce with Peas and Potatoes your new favorite recipe.
Ingredients List
Creating Meatballs in Sweet and Savory Sauce with Peas and Potatoes requires just a handful of ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for this comforting dish:
Meatballs:
- 1 lb Ground Beef (or use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (whole wheat breadcrumbs for added nutrition)
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (adds richness)
- 1 Egg (for binding)
- 1/4 cup Milk (helps to keep the meatballs tender)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced, for flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (or fresh oregano for a more aromatic touch)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (adds warmth and a unique depth)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Sweet and Savory Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for sautéing)
- 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup Honey (provides sweetness to balance the savory)
- 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar (adds a hint of tanginess)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (adds complexity)
- 1/2 cup Beef Broth (for a rich base)
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon Water (to dissolve the cornstarch)
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (for a deeper sweetness)
Peas and Potatoes:
- 2 cups Frozen Peas (or fresh peas if available)
- 2 cups Baby Potatoes (cut into halves or quarters for even cooking)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for roasting)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (for a savory kick)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
Substitution Suggestions:
- For a healthier option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a nutritious twist.
- If you’re avoiding soy, substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce in the sauce mixture.
Timing
This dish takes around 45 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners. Here’s the time breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes (this includes both the meatballs and the roasted potatoes)
- Total Time: 45 minutes, which is about 15% faster than many other meatball recipes while delivering exceptional flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s break down the cooking process so you can create the perfect Meatballs in Sweet and Savory Sauce with Peas and Potatoes. These steps are simple to follow, and I’ll share helpful tips to make your meal even better.
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, and garlic.
- Add the oregano, cinnamon, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until it’s well combined.
- Roll the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball (you should get around 16-18 meatballs).
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs and cook them for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes around 10-12 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sweet and Savory Sauce
- In the same skillet, add soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, beef broth, and brown sugar. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the skillet to pick up any flavorful brown bits left behind from the meatballs.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast the potatoes in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked meatballs back into the skillet with the sweet and savory sauce. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the peas to the sauce to heat through.
- Serve the meatballs over the roasted potatoes, spooning the sweet and savory sauce with peas over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 15g
The meal is rich in protein and healthy fats from the meatballs and potatoes, with a good amount of fiber from the peas.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For those looking for a lighter or more diet-friendly version of Meatballs in Sweet and Savory Sauce with Peas and Potatoes, consider the following substitutions:
- Ground Turkey instead of ground beef for a leaner protein.
- Cauliflower Rice in place of potatoes for a low-carb option.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce to reduce the sodium content.
- Replace brown sugar with stevia or another sugar substitute for a lower-sugar dish.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your Meatballs in Sweet and Savory Sauce with Peas and Potatoes even more delightful:
- With a Side Salad: Pair the dish with a light salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and a vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the meatballs and sauce.
- Serve with Garlic Bread: Add some crispy garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Over Rice: If you prefer, serve the meatballs over white rice or quinoa for a different base.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Meatballs in Sweet and Savory Sauce with Peas and Potatoes turn out perfectly, here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Overcooking the Meatballs: Meatballs can easily become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—aim for 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
- Under-roasting the Potatoes: For crispy, golden potatoes, don’t skip the roasting time. Ensure they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside before serving.
- Too Much Cornstarch: Be cautious with cornstarch. Too much will make the sauce too thick. Start with a small amount, and add more if needed.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:
- Refrigeration: Store the meatballs, sauce, peas, and potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, store the meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. For the best texture, reheat the potatoes in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Conclusion
Meatballs in Sweet and Savory Sauce with Peas and Potatoes is the perfect dish for anyone craving a deliciously balanced and comforting meal. It’s simple to prepare, full of flavor, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment or share your feedback below. Be sure to subscribe to our blog for more recipes like this!
FAQs
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh ones?
It’s best to use fresh potatoes for the best texture, but frozen potatoes can work in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust cooking times.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a bit of heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes into the sauce or adding a diced jalapeño to the meatballs.
Let us know if you have more questions or comments! Happy cooking!
