Description
These Bison Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic dish, made with lean ground bison, fresh herbs, and spices, simmered in rich marinara sauce. Easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty meal, they are sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground bison
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup milk (or beef broth for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 1 jar (about 24 ounces) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground bison, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use your hands to mix evenly.
- Add the chopped parsley, onion, and minced garlic to the bowl.
- Crack the egg into the mixture to act as a binder.
- Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour in the milk (or beef broth) and gently mix until well incorporated. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet.
- Shape the mixture into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter using a cookie scoop or your hands.
- Place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate the meatballs for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C).
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the skillet.
- Cover and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce gets too thick.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped vegetables into the marinara sauce.
- These meatballs can be served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own with a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes