Updated Meatball Stew
Hearty meatball stew with tender beef, savory herbs, and mini ravioli, perfect for comforting family dinners and cold evenings with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, onions, and chopped parsley in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in shortening in a large skillet or Dutch oven.
- Add sliced carrots, water, and remaining salt to the skillet.
- Add the canned mini ravioli to the mixture.
- Cover and simmer for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or Italian seasoning to the meatball mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be a great substitute. Ensure the meatballs are not overcrowded in the skillet for even browning. This stew can also be spiced up with a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty meatball stew with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine for an added touch of comfort. For a fun twist, try it alongside some cheesy garlic bread or even serve it over rice for a filling option. For more comforting flavors, browse more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatball stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water if the stew seems too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Updated Meatball Stew contains roughly 555 calories, with 17g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1135mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes, this stew can be made ahead of time! Prepare the dish and let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. It will also taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it slowly to maintain the meatballs' tenderness.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work well in place of ground beef. For a vegetarian alternative, you can use plant-based ground meat or even finely chopped mushrooms and lentils to create a hearty texture.
How can I thicken the stew if it's too watery?
If your stew turns out too watery, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew and simmer for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).