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Red Wine Braised Meatballs

Hearty Red Wine Braised Meatballs Over Cheesy Polenta

A comforting dish featuring red wine braised meatballs served over cheesy polenta, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound Ground Chicken Substitute with ground beef, pork, or lamb for richer flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs Gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour are great alternatives.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 large Egg Use a flax egg for a vegan version.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 small Onion Substitute with shallots or leeks.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is recommended.
For the Sauce
  • 1 small Carrot Replace with bell peppers for a different flavor.
  • 1 stalk Celery Fennel can be used instead or omitted.
  • 1 tbsp Tomato Paste A small amount of ketchup works in emergencies.
  • 1 bottle Red Wine Opt for a hearty dry red wine for the best results.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative.
For the Polenta
  • 1 cup Polenta Instant polenta can be used for quicker preparation.
  • 4 cups Water Using broth enhances the flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Olive oil can serve as a dairy-free alternative.
  • Salt and Pepper Essential seasonings; adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Add onion and garlic, mixing until well blended. Shape into meatballs.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add meatballs, browning on all sides for about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery for about 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Pour in the red wine, scraping any browned bits from the pan. Add chicken broth if desired. Bring to a simmer, cooking down for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are immersed in the sauce. Cover and let simmer for 20-30 minutes on low heat.
  6. In a separate pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in polenta, reduce heat, and stir frequently for 10-15 minutes until creamy.
  7. To serve, spoon polenta onto each plate, top with meatballs and sauce, and garnish with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg

Notes

This dish is perfect for cozy evenings and invites you to enjoy a comforting meal that warms the heart and tantalizes the palate.

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