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Bacon-Wrapped Meatball Stew with Cheesy Herb Dumplings
Indulge in this hearty bacon-wrapped meatball stew with cheesy herb dumplings for the ultimate cozy comfort food experience.
Imagine the comforting warmth of a stew, but with the irresistible flavors of bacon-wrapped meatballs and cheesy herb dumplings. This unique creation takes indulgence to a whole new level, marrying the rich, savory notes of crispy bacon with succulent meatballs that are simmered to perfection in a robust broth. The crowning glory? Fluffy dumplings infused with melted cheese and fresh herbs, offering a delightful contrast of textures. This stew is a one-pot wonder that promises to envelop you in comfort and satisfy your deepest cravings.
Why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your stew game with these bold flavors and textures? Each spoonful is a revelation, with tender meatballs that explode with juicy richness, complemented by the creamy, cheesy pillows of dumplings. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to the art of indulgence, perfect for when you want to treat yourself or impress your guests.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time
30 mins
Cook Time
1 mins
Total Time
31 mins
Servings
6
Calories
820 kcal
per serving
Cuisine
Italian
Indulge in this hearty bacon-wrapped meatball stew with cheesy herb dumplings for the ultimate cozy comfort food experience.
Ingredients
- • Ground beef: 1 lb (450g)
- • Italian sausage (casings removed): 1/2 lb (225g)
- • Bacon strips: 12
- • Onion, finely chopped: 1 large
- • Garlic cloves, minced: 4
- • Carrots, diced: 2
- • Celery stalks, diced: 2
- • Beef broth: 4 cups (1 liter)
- • Red wine: 1 cup (240ml)
- • Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
- • Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
- • Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
- • Bay leaves: 2
- • Salt and pepper: To taste
- • All-purpose flour: 1 cup (125g)
- • Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- • Butter, melted: 1/4 cup (60g)
- • Milk: 1/2 cup (120ml)
- • Cheddar cheese, shredded: 1 cup (100g)
- • Fresh parsley, chopped: 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- 1 Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2 In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic. Shape into 12 equal-sized meatballs.
- 3 Wrap each meatball with a strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- 4 Heat a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- 5 In the same pot, add chopped onion, remaining garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and onions are translucent.
- 6 Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it deepens in color. Pour in red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- 7 Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, bay leaves, and return meatballs to the pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and transfer to the oven. Bake for 45 minutes.
- 8 Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings by whisking together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter, milk, cheddar cheese, and parsley until a dough forms.
- 9 Remove the pot from the oven and drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough onto the simmering stew. Cover and return to the oven for an additional 20 minutes, until dumplings are cooked through.
- 10 Serve the stew hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- • This Bacon-Wrapped Meatball Stew pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. For an extra touch of indulgence, accompany it with a crusty loaf of garlic bread to mop up the savory broth. A glass of full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, perfectly complements the deep flavors of the stew. For dessert, consider a light and refreshing option like a lemon sorbet or a fruit tart to cleanse the palate and conclude your meal on a sweet note.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to thin the consistency if needed. The dumplings may absorb some of the liquid as they sit, so adjusting the broth is essential for maintaining the stew's original texture.
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