Are you ready to elevate your culinary game with a versatile and flavorful Italian classic? Look no further than polpettone, a mouthwatering meatball-style dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a comforting family meal, or simply craving something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delectable polpettone recipes to spice up your cooking routine. From classic beef and herb combinations to creative vegetarian and gluten-free options, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of polpettones together!
Classic Italian Beef Polpettone with Herbs
Classic Italian Beef Polpettone with Herbs
Discover the rich flavors of Italy’s famous meatball dish, reimagined with tender beef and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape the mixture into 6-8 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
5. Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Classic Italian Beef Polpettone with Herbs!
Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Polpettone
Elevate your meatball game with these Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Polpettone, packed with flavor and mozzarella goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions. Flatten each portion slightly.
4. Place a tablespoon of ricotta cheese in the center of each portion. Top with chopped spinach and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Fold the meat over the filling to form balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each polpettone.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Mushroom and Parmesan Polpettone
This Italian-inspired recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms, garlic, and thyme with the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese. The result is a tender and savory polpettone that’s perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine mushrooms, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix until just combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Place the polpettone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Peperoncino Polpettone
This recipe combines the spicy kick of peperoncinos with the richness of sausage, creating a mouthwatering meatball perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 3-4 peperoncinos, finely chopped (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, peperoncinos, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll each meatball to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mediterranean-Style Polpettone with Olives and Feta
This savory Italian-style meatball dish is infused with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring a blend of juicy beef, aromatic herbs, and tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 12-15 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and top each with an olive slice and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Brush with egg wash during the last 2 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Gluten-Free Polpettone with Almond Flour
Polpettone is an Italian-style meatball recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This gluten-free version uses almond flour as a substitute for traditional breadcrumbs, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, almond flour, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Juicy Turkey and Sage Polpettone
This recipe combines the rich flavors of turkey and sage with the comfort of a polpettone, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until just combined.
4. Beat in egg and chicken broth.
5. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil and Walnut Polpettone
A twist on the classic Italian-style meatballs, this Vegetarian Lentil and Walnut Polpettone is a flavorful and nutritious treat. Made with red lentils, toasted walnuts, and aromatic spices, these bite-sized wonders are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red lentils
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lentils, breadcrumbs, parsley, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix in olive oil and garlic until well combined.
4. Stir in chopped walnuts.
5. Use your hands to shape mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Place polpettone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic and Rosemary Infused Polpettone
Elevate your meatball game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of garlic and rosemary creates a rich and herby flavor profile that pairs well with pasta, risotto, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, rosemary, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite pasta or risotto dish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Polpettone with Bourbon Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this savory and sweet twist on traditional pork tenderloin. Crispy bacon, rich bourbon glaze, and tender meat come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap bacon slices around the tenderloin, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, bourbon whiskey, and honey until well combined.
5. Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the bourbon glaze.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Polpettone
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and savory meatballs for a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, garlic, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pork and Apple Polpettone with Cider Sauce
Pork and Apple Polpettone with Cider Sauce Recipe
Summary: A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring pork, apples, and a tangy cider sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Cider Sauce ingredients: 1 cup apple cider, 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp brown sugar, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pork, onion, garlic, apple, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 6-8 meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the polpettone is cooking, prepare the Cider Sauce by combining apple cider, butter, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve the pork and apple polpettone with the warm Cider Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Keto-Friendly Polpettone with Cauliflower Rice
This recipe transforms the classic Italian meatball dish into a low-carb, keto-friendly delight. By substituting traditional breadcrumbs with cauliflower rice and using a mixture of beef and pork for added flavor, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and healthy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup cauliflower rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, Parmesan cheese, egg, and cauliflower rice. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika and Chorizo Polpettone
This Spanish-inspired tapas dish combines the rich flavors of chorizo, smoky paprika, and tender polpettine to create a hearty and savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound polpettine (Italian-style meatballs)
– 6 slices of chorizo, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chorizo strips and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy.
4. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the polpettine to the same skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking them apart with a spoon as they brown.
6. Add the smoked paprika to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Return the cooked chorizo to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon and Thyme Chicken Polpettone
This refreshing take on traditional meatballs combines the zest of lemon with the earthy warmth of thyme, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these bite-sized chicken polpettone are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the polpettone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Polpettone
A savory Italian-style meatball filled with the sweet and tangy flavors of caramelized onions and creamy gorgonzola cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, caramelized onions, gorgonzola cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1 large onion over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and sweet.
Pesto and Pine Nut Stuffed Polpettone
This Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of creamy pesto, crunchy pine nuts, and tender polpettonne for a unique and delicious main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound polpettonne (Italian-style meatballs)
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the polpettonne in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the pesto and toasted pine nuts.
4. Stuff each polpettonne half with the pesto-pine nut mixture, dividing it evenly among the meatballs.
5. Place the stuffed polpettonne on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Glazed Beef and Bacon Polpettone
Elevate your game day gathering with this mouthwatering polpettone recipe, featuring tender beef, crispy bacon, and a rich BBQ glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crumbled bacon, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into a ball and flatten slightly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the BBQ glaze evenly over the polpettone, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Polpettone with Red Wine Reduction
Herbed Polpettone with Red Wine Reduction
A savory Italian-style meatball dish infused with herbs and paired with a rich red wine reduction, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, combine red wine and tomato paste in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Reduce the wine mixture by half, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy (about 10-12 minutes).
7. Serve the herbed polpettone with the red wine reduction spooned over the top.
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Polpettone with Honey and Chili
Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and spicy flavors with this unique Italian-inspired polpettone recipe, featuring honey and chili peppers. This appetizer or snack is sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, olive oil, garlic, honey, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these 20 mouthwatering Polpettone recipes! From classic Italian beef with herbs to spicy sausage and peperoncino, and from cheesy spinach and ricotta to Mediterranean-style with olives and feta, there’s a Polpettone recipe for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free options or keto-friendly choices, this collection has got you covered. Discover innovative flavor combinations like garlic and rosemary infused, bacon-wrapped with bourbon glaze, and sun-dried tomato and basil. With so many delicious possibilities, you’ll never get bored with Polpettone again!
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