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Stuffed Meatballs in Guinness Gravy

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes wrap you in warmth quite like stuffed meatballs in Guinness gravy. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs that burst with cheese flavor, all swimming in a rich, hearty gravy that has the depth of a cozy pub. This dish invites you to gather around the table—whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion. A meal like this tells stories of tradition and love, bringing family and friends together around a pot of indulgence.

Why Make This Recipe

Cozy and satisfying, it’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Packed with flavor, these meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic.
Great for meal prep, you can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

The combination of flavorful meatballs and the richness of the gravy makes this dish irresistible. It transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience worth savoring.

Easy Method for Stuffed Meatballs in Guinness Gravy

Making stuffed meatballs in Guinness gravy is not just about cooking; it’s about creating an unforgettable experience that fills the house with tantalizing aromas. With a few simple steps, you can craft a dish that will impress everyone around your table and make them come back for seconds—if not thirds!

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Stuffing

Start by cutting the 4 oz Dubliner cheese into small cubes, roughly 1/2 to 3/4 inches in size. To make this simpler, place the cheese cubes on parchment paper and pop them into the freezer for about 15 to 20 minutes so they firm up slightly. You want them to be cool and semi-firm for easier stuffing later.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1.5 lbs ground beef with 1 finely diced medium onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 0.67 cup panko breadcrumbs. Using your hands, gently mix the ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this will ensure that your meatballs stay tender and juicy.

Step 3: Form the Stuffed Meatballs

Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it into a small patty in your palm. Place one of the semi-frozen cheese cubes in the center, then carefully bring the edges of the meat mixture around it. Seal it completely, rolling it gently into a smooth, round meatball. Repeat this process with the remaining meat and cheese until all are formed. You should end up with around 20-25 delicious meatballs.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, place the stuffed meatballs in the skillet, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes per batch until they develop a beautiful crust. Do not worry about cooking them through at this point; you’ll finish that in the gravy later. Once browned, remove them and set aside, keeping the fragrant pan drippings for the gravy.

Step 5: Sauté Gravy Aromatics

Decrease the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter into the skillet. Toss in 1 chopped onion, 2 chopped carrots, 2 chopped celery stalks, 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Sauté these ingredients, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and carry a slight golden hue.

Step 6: Build the Gravy Base

Sprinkle 0.5 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed mixture, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes. This step is essential for creating a roux that will give your gravy body. Next, slowly introduce the entire 14.9 fl oz can of non-alcoholic dark beer while whisking to dissolve any lumps and to lift those delicious browned bits off the pan. Allow this mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Finish the Gravy

Gradually whisk in 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth. Follow that with 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the flavors. Season with black pepper and salt to taste. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until your gravy thickens to a velvety consistency.

Step 8: Simmer Meatballs in Gravy

Carefully return the browned meatballs to the simmering gravy, ensuring they’re nestled in and mostly submerged. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb all the wonderful flavors from the gravy. The cheese inside will melt, creating a gooey, delightful surprise when you take your first bite.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve hot alongside creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious gravy.

Best Way to Store Stuffed Meatballs in Guinness Gravy

To keep your stuffed meatballs in Guinness gravy fresh, consider the following storage tips:

Refrigerate for 3–4 days at 40°F: Store the meatballs in an airtight container. The flavors can actually deepen as they sit, making it even tastier!
Freeze for up to 2 months: Let the meatballs cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. If you want to prevent freezer burn, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or reheat directly from frozen over low heat on the stove until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Meatballs in Guinness Gravy

When serving stuffed meatballs in Guinness gravy, consider these delightful pairings and presentation ideas:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a perfect canvas for the rich gravy, making each bite a symphony of flavors.
Egg Noodles: Tossed with a little butter and parsley, egg noodles make an excellent base and absorb the luscious gravy beautifully.
Crusty Bread: A rustic loaf or rolls can be used to mop up every last drop of gravy, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Side Salad: A crisp side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the dish and add a refreshing element to the meal.

Tips to Make Stuffed Meatballs in Guinness Gravy

Keep it Tender: Avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Gently combine the ingredients to ensure soft meatballs.
Choose Good Quality Meat: For the best flavor, use high-quality ground beef; it makes a noticeable difference.
Don’t Skip the Cheese: The Dubliner cheese is a star here; its sharpness pairs beautifully with the richness of the gravy.
Season Generously: Taste your gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed for the best flavor.
Experiment with Beer: Different non-alcoholic dark beers may offer unique flavors depending on your preference.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to give your stuffed meatballs a twist, consider these variations:

Cheese Choice: Instead of Dubliner cheese, try using gouda or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will give the meatballs a distinct character that could surprise the palate.
Add Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, mix in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also add a splash of hot sauce to the gravy for an extra kick.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and gravy a day in advance. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used as a leaner option. Just adjust the cooking time, as poultry may require slightly less time to cook through.

How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or incorporate a splash of hot sauce into the gravy for an enjoyable heat that elevates the entire dish.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. For the roux in the gravy, use a gluten-free flour blend.

What can I garnish with?
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only provide beautiful color but also enhance the flavor profile. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated cheese on top for added richness.

In pulling together this satisfying recipe for stuffed meatballs in Guinness gravy, you open the door to a culinary experience that is as much about tradition as it is about taste. Each bite tells a story—of warmth, togetherness, and indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these meatballs will surely elevate your dining experience and keep your guests talking long after the last crumb is gone. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the tempting aroma of this delightful dish. Enjoy!