Vodka Meatballs

By Makinze GorePublished: May 9, 2023

2 Ratings

Jump to recipe

PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLIST: FRANCESCA ZANI

Creamy vodka sauce is the ultimate comfort food, and with the addition of easy chicken meatballs, it becomes a simple, heartier dinner. Meatballs are a nice and filling alternative to pasta, though you can serve with pasta alongside if you want to go all out. Sometimes you just need some extra protein in your comfort dishes. The sauce relies heavily on rich, sweet tomato paste, and vodka adds an almost spiciness to the dish and helps balance out the heaviness of the sauce. The whole dish is quick and one you’ll be able to easily master.

Did you try this recipe? Let us know how it went in the comments!

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Yields:: 4 serving(s)
Prep Time:: 20 mins
Total Time:: 50 mins
Cal/Serv:: 523

Ingredients

Meatballs

1 lb.
ground chicken
1/2 c.
panko bread crumbs
1 oz.
finely grated Parmesan (about 1/4 c.)
1
large egg, lightly beaten
2
cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 tbsp.
chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 tsp.
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp.
extra-virgin olive oil

Vodka Sauce

2 tbsp.
unsalted butter
1
small shallot, finely chopped
2
cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 c.
tomato paste
2 tbsp.
vodka
1/2 c.
heavy cream
1/2 c.
(or more) water
1/4 tsp.
crushed red pepper flakes
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 oz.
finely grated Parmesan (about 1/4 c.), plus more for serving
Chopped fresh parsley, for serving

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (Serves 4)

Calories523 Fat36 gSaturated fat17 gTrans fat0 gCholesterol213 mgSodium650 mgCarbohydrates15 gFiber3 gSugar6 gProtein32 gVitamin D1 mcgCalcium303 mgIron3 mgPotassium1071 mg

Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Powered by

Directions

Meatballs
1. Step 1In a large bowl, combine chicken, bread crumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and parsley; season with salt and a few grinds of black pepper.
2. Step 2Form mixture into 12 meatballs (about 3 tablespoons each). If mixture is too sticky, slightly wet your hands to help form balls.
3. Step 3In a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and almost cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
Vodka Sauce
1. Step 1In same skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add shallot and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring frequently, until darkened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add vodka and cook, stirring, until evaporated, about 1 minute more.
2. Step 2Slowly add cream and water. Stir until smooth, then stir in red pepper; season with salt and black pepper.
3. Step 3Return meatballs to skillet and reduce heat to low. Turn meatballs to coat in sauce. Cover skillet and cook, stirring occasionally and adding more water if sauce is too thick, until meatballs are cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes. Add Parmesan and stir until melted.
4. Step 4Transfer meatballs to a platter. Top with more Parmesan and parsley before serving.