Red Wine Braised Meatballs

Name: Red Wine Braised Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (80/20 fat); 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup fruity red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon); 1 can crushed tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Author: Emily

Published: 11 July 2025

Updated: 2 February 2026

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of meatballs simmering away in a rich sauce. It fills the kitchen with warmth and a sense of comfort. This dish deserves a spot on your dinner table. Red Wine Braised Meatballs combine simple ingredients to create something truly special. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up!

why make this recipe

These meatballs are flavorful and utterly satisfying. The blend of the beef with fresh parsley, teamed up with the depth of red wine, creates a wonderful savory experience. Whether you’re cozying up for a weeknight meal or hosting friends, these meatballs will impress. They pair perfectly with pasta or even a slice of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

how to make Red Wine Braised Meatballs

Let’s gather our ingredients and get started! First up, you’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, preferably with a nice fat content, around 80/20. Fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and flavor, so grab a handful. You also need one medium onion and three cloves of garlic. For the sauce, pick a fruity red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, along with a can of crushed tomatoes and some beef broth. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and a little olive oil for the pan!

Now, before we dive into cooking, let’s prep everything. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. This step not only makes cooking essential but also makes me feel super chef-like!

Next, in a large bowl, mix the ground beef, parsley, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper together. Use your hands to combine everything thoroughly; it’s more fun that way! Once mixed, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. You want that nice golden crust. Once they’re browned, carefully take them out of the skillet.

In that same pan, pour in your red wine. This is where the magic happens! Scrape up those tasty browned bits on the bottom. Add your crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and braise on low heat for about 30 minutes.

And just like that, your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

how to serve Red Wine Braised Meatballs

Once they’re done, serve your meatballs over a bed of pasta drizzled with olive oil. You could also spoon them into a sub roll with some melted cheese on top for a hearty meatball sandwich. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra parsley on top for that fresh touch. I love serving this with garlic mashed potatoes on the side; they soak up all that sauce beautifully!

how to store Red Wine Braised Meatballs

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the meatballs cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay good in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them! Just pack them up well in freezer bags or containers, and they’ll last for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw and reheat.

tips to make Red Wine Braised Meatballs

If you want an extra flavor boost, try adding some Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. Fresh herbs work well too! And if you love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce can add a lovely kick. To transform this into a complete meal, serve it with a side of roasted veggies or a simple salad.

variation

Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This makes for a lighter version that is equally delicious. You could also use zoodles instead of pasta if you’re looking for a low-carb option.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of wine?
Absolutely! A dry red wine works just as well. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they can change the flavor profile.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F for ground beef. You can use a meat thermometer for this, or just make sure they are no longer pink in the center.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the meatballs and sauce in advance and then heat them up when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great make-ahead meal!

Now that you’ve mastered this cozy recipe, I hope you feel inspired to cook and share this yummy dish with friends and family. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want something hearty and satisfying.

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