Few meals are as satisfying and comforting as Rice with Meatballs and Vegetables. This dish combines tender, juicy meatballs, fluffy rice, and a colorful mix of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a warm, nourishing meal on a cold day.
The best part? This one-pot meal is easy to prepare and packed with balanced nutrition, offering protein from the meatballs, fiber from the vegetables, and energy-boosting carbohydrates from the rice. If you love homemade comfort food that’s both hearty and healthy, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ One-Pot Wonder – Everything cooks together for minimal cleanup.
✔ Rich in Flavor – A delicious blend of herbs, spices, and a tomato-infused broth.
✔ Nutritious & Filling – Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
✔ Kid-Friendly – A fun way to encourage kids to eat more veggies!
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients for Rice with Meatballs and Vegetables
Before you begin, gather these fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 400g |
| Minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix) | 350g |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Carrot (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Green bell pepper (finely chopped) | 1 small |
| Green beans (chopped) | 100g |
| Peas | 100g |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp |
| Sweet paprika | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable or poultry stock | 1-2 liters |
| Slice of bread (soaked in milk) | 1 |
| Milk | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 3 |
| Chopped parsley | To taste |
| Sea salt | To taste |
| Ground black pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil (for frying) | As needed |
| Flour (for coating meatballs) | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Dish
1. Prepare the Meatballs
Soak the Bread
- Place the slice of bread in a small bowl and pour 2 tablespoons of milk over it. Let it sit until soft.
Mix the Meatball Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Minced meat
- Soaked bread
- 1 minced garlic clove
- Chopped parsley
- Sea salt & black pepper (to taste)
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Form the Meatballs
- Shape the mixture into small, walnut-sized meatballs.
- Lightly coat each meatball with flour to help them hold their shape.
Fry the Meatballs
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the meatballs until golden brown on all sides.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, green bell pepper, and remaining minced garlic.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Add the Green Beans & Peas
- Stir in the chopped green beans and peas.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to slightly soften.
3. Combine and Cook the Rice
Add the Rice and Spices
- Stir in the rice, ensuring it is well coated with the sautéed vegetables.
- Add tomato paste and sweet paprika, stirring well.
Pour in the Stock & Add the Bay Leaf
- Pour 1-2 liters of vegetable or poultry stock, ensuring the liquid covers the rice by about 1 inch.
- Add the bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer the Rice
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the Meatballs & Finish Cooking
Incorporate the Meatballs
- Once the rice is nearly cooked, gently nestle the fried meatballs into the rice mixture.
Final Simmer
- Cover and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the meatballs are heated through.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Serve the Rice with Meatballs and Vegetables hot, garnished with extra chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Best Ways to Serve Rice with Meatballs and Vegetables
✔ As a Hearty Dinner
Enjoy this dish as a complete, one-pot meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
✔ With a Side Salad
Pair with a simple green salad for a well-balanced meal.
✔ With Crusty Bread
Serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
✔ As a Meal Prep Option
Make a big batch and store portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Microwave: Reheat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Freezing Option:
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. What’s the best type of meat for the meatballs?
A mix of beef and pork gives the best flavor, but you can use chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the meatballs with chickpea or lentil balls and use vegetable broth.
4. How do I keep my meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure to coat them lightly with flour and chill them before frying for better shape retention.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Zucchini, mushrooms, or corn make great additions to this dish.
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats beautifully and is perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Meal
Rice with Meatballs and Vegetables is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prep, or a cozy dinner, this dish delivers on taste, nutrition, and comfort.
Try this delicious one-pot recipe today and enjoy a warm, satisfying homemade meal!