Italian Bison Meatballs
Italian meatballs are one of those dinners we keep coming back to for a reason, and we love this recipe because it tastes like it simmered all day, even when it didn’t.
These bison meatballs are packed with garlic, herbs, and parmesan for plenty of rich flavor in every bite. The lean bison works especially well here because it adds hearty flavor without making the meatballs feel too heavy.
As the meatballs simmer in the sauce, they soak up all that delicious flavor while still staying tender, and the best part is that your kitchen will smell incredible long before dinner is actually ready.
Serve them over pasta, on an Italian roll with melted provolone, or straight from the pan with a little extra parmesan on top. However you plate them up, this recipe is always a hit around the dinner table.
Italian Bison Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Bison Meat
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs - or gluten-free bread crumbs
- 3 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 large egg - lightly beaten
- 1 clove finely chopped garlic
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1-1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes (or 2 14.5-oz cans crushed tomatoes)
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves - for serving
Instructions
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Combine panko (or gluten-free bread crumbs) and milk in a large bowl and let sit until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add egg, garlic, parsley, onion powder, parmesan cheese, bison meat, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Use hands to mix thoroughly and form into 16 1-1/2-inch meatballs. Place the meatballs on a parchment lined baking sheet.
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Heat a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. When hot add 1 tablespoon oil and half of the meatballs to the skillet. Gently brown on all sides, about 6 to 8 minutes and transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining meatballs and 1 tablespoon oil. Reserve skillet.
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Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the reserved skillet along with the tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Use a large spoon to stir and combine while scraping up the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and add the meatballs.
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Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer, gently stirring once or twice until meatballs are tender and sauce is thickened slightly, about 25 minutes.
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Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
