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Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet

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This Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet is a one-pan, comforting meal packed with juicy meatballs, aromatic herbs, and fluffy rice. It’s simple to make, flavorful, and perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried herbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 cup white or jasmine rice (uncooked)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, dill, or basil (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix ground meat, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
  2. Form into small meatballs (about 1 to 1½ inches).
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  4. Add more oil if needed and sauté onion until soft and fragrant.
  5. Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 1 minute.
  6. Pour in broth, scraping any brown bits from the skillet.
  7. Return meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice.
  8. Cover and simmer on low heat for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and meatballs are cooked through.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in parsley, fresh herbs (if using), and a squeeze of lemon juice.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain version (adjust cook time).
  • Add veggies like peas, spinach, or bell peppers.
  • Stir in parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.
  • To make it spicy, add red pepper flakes or cayenne.
  • To make gluten-free, use GF breadcrumbs and check your broth/seasonings.

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