If you're looking for a delicious and easy meal, try making meatball and white bean stew! This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly day and can be made in just one pot. The meatballs are made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, while the white beans provide a creamy texture and add fiber to the dish. The stew is seasoned with garlic, onion, and tomato sauce for a savory and comforting flavor.
This recipe is great for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping, as it can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later.
Why This Recipe Works
This Meatball and White Beans Stew recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that makes it a comforting and satisfying dish. The tender and juicy meatballs infused with herbs and spices, combined with the creamy white beans and the rich tomato sauce create a mouth-watering stew that is both hearty and flavorful. The addition of vegetables such as carrots and celery not only adds a nutritional boost but also a pleasant crunch and sweetness to the stew. The recipe is also incredibly versatile, as you can swap in different types of meat or beans, or add other vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
Another great feature of this recipe is how easy and quick it is to make. It requires only a few ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry and fridge, and takes less than an hour to prepare from start to finish. The meatballs can be formed in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The stew can also be frozen for later, providing you with a delicious and comforting meal anytime you need it. Overall, this Meatball and White Beans Stew recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Ground beef - forms the base of the meatballs; you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
White beans -adds creaminess and fiber to the stew; canned or cooked from dried beans both work well.
Onion - adds flavor and depth; white or yellow onions are ideal, but red onions can also be used.
Carrots - adds color and nutrients; can be replaced with other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
Chicken broth - provides the liquid base for the stew; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
Tips
- Use lean ground meat for healthier meatballs.
- Soak dried beans overnight to shorten cooking time.
- Brown the meatballs first for added flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like celery or bell peppers, for more variety.
- Adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more or less broth.
How to Serve
This Meatball White Bean Stew can be enjoyed on its own or served with a side for a complete meal. It's a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
- For a heartier option, serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Similar Recipes
Meatball Stew
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cans 15 oz each white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the onion and carrots, and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the white beans and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, until the stew has thickened.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use lean ground meat for healthier meatballs.
- Soak dried beans overnight to shorten cooking time.
- Brown the meatballs first for added flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like celery or bell peppers, for more variety.
- Adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more or less broth.