Cajun Meatball Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Cajun Meatball Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds ground beef; 0.25 cup chopped parsley; 1 whole egg, beaten; 0.33 cup grated parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 0.33 cup milk; 2 teaspoons fresh oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon dried); 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 small green bell pepper, chopped; 4 tablespoons roux; 3 cups beef broth; 6 medium red potatoes, diced; 2 cans sliced carrots, drained; 1 to taste Tabasco; 1 bunch chopped parsley (for garnish); 1 to taste salt and pepper; 1 cup cooked white rice

Introduction to Cajun Meatball Stew

Cajun meatball stew is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of beef meatballs with the rich, bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. This comforting stew is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, and it’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. With tender meatballs, savory vegetables, and a thick, flavorful broth, this recipe is one you’ll want to make time and time again.

A Personal Story Behind My Cajun Meatball Stew Journey

Growing up in a family that cherished home-cooked meals, I have fond memories of my grandmother preparing her famous stew on chilly evenings. The aroma of simmering meatballs and fresh herbs filled our home, creating a sense of comfort and togetherness. This Cajun meatball stew recipe is inspired by those cherished memories, bringing a taste of home to my own kitchen. I hope it brings you and your loved ones the same warmth and joy it has brought to me.

What Makes This Cajun Meatball Stew Recipe Special?

What sets this Cajun meatball stew apart is its unique blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender ground beef meatballs, fresh herbs like parsley and oregano, and the slight kick from Tabasco creates a dish that’s both satisfying and exciting. The addition of vegetables like potatoes and carrots not only enhances the stew’s heartiness but also adds nutritional value. This dish is a true representation of Cajun cooking, known for its rich flavors and comforting appeal.

The Full Cajun Meatball Stew Recipe

Ingredients

1.5 pounds ground beef
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg, beaten
1/2-1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup milk
2 teaspoons fresh oregano or 1/2 teaspoon dried
1 medium onion, chopped
1 small green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons roux
3 cups beef broth
6 medium red potatoes, diced
2 cans sliced carrots, drained well
Tabasco to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked white rice for serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, parsley, beaten egg, parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, milk, and oregano. Mix gently until just combined. Tip: Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Form the mixture into meatballs of your desired size and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through. Set aside.

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the roux to the skillet and stir until melted and combined with the veggies.

Pour in the beef broth and whisk until well combined, creating a thick gravy. Tip: Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed.
Add the cooked meatballs, Tabasco, bell pepper, drained carrots, and diced potatoes to the pot. Ensure the meatballs are submerged in the liquid.
Bring the stew to a low boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer with the lid slightly ajar. Stir occasionally.

Taste halfway through cooking and adjust seasoning if needed.
Simmer until the potatoes are tender and the stew reaches your desired thickness, adjusting the lid as needed.
While the stew simmers, prepare the white rice according to your preferred method.
Once the stew is cooked to your liking, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over white rice.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cajun Meatball Stew

This Cajun meatball stew is delicious served over fluffy white rice, but you can also try it with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to add more Tabasco or even a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or celery for added crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider serving it over a bed of steamed greens instead of rice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Meatball Stew

Can I make this stew ahead of time? Yes! This stew can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

Can I freeze Cajun meatball stew? Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if I don’t have roux? If you don’t have roux on hand, you can use flour or cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken the stew to your liking.

Are there vegetarian options for this stew? While the meatballs are the main feature, you could substitute with plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly.