Childhood Meatballs

Name: Childhood Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 500 g ground beef (lean); 1 cup breadcrumbs (fresh); 1 egg (beaten); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)

70 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

Childhood Meatballs

Savour the nostalgia with these tender and flavourful childhood meatballs, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

70 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Boulettes d'enfance, or childhood meatballs, are a beloved dish that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and comforting meals. These savoury bites are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. The simplicity of this dish is what makes it so special. With a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can recreate this classic recipe that has been passed down through generations. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.

Instructions

Prepare the meatball mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, salt, pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Pro tip: Chill the mixture for about 10 minutes for easier handling.

Shape the meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into 24 small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Pro tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.

Brown the meatballs

Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Transfer them to a plate.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.

Prepare the sauce

In the same skillet, add the beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Pro tip: Scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits for extra flavour.

Simmer the meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Pro tip: Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.

Thicken the sauce

Mix the cornstarch with water and add it to the skillet. Stir and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh breadcrumbs for a softer texture.
Chill the meatball mixture for easier shaping.
Adjust seasoning to your taste before forming the meatballs.
Serve with a side of rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is boulette riz?

Boulette riz refers to rice balls, which are different from meatballs but can be served with them as a side dish.

How can I make meatballs more tender?

Use fresh breadcrumbs and incorporate them well with the meat mixture to ensure tenderness.

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I prevent meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well combined and chill before shaping to help them hold together.

What else can I serve with meatballs?

Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or over pasta for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your childhood meatballs with a side of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. For added flavour, pair them with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Simply reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop when you're ready to enjoy.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

25g

Protein

20g

Fat

Tender beef cooked with juicy cherry tomatoes in a slow cooker for a deliciously comforting meal.

Easy495 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Kitchen Appliances · Food Dehydrators

OSTBA Food Dehydrator, 5 Trays, 240W Dryer for Jerky, Fruit & Veggies

$89.99

Kitchen Organisation · Pantry Storage

6 Pack Food Storage Organizer Bins Clear Plastic Removable Snack Organizer Pantry Organization Storage Racks with 3 Dividers, Kitchen, Cabinets Snacks, Packets, Spices, Pouches Stackable Bins

$35.99

Pit Boss Grills

Big Head Spatula

$14.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.