Sausage Fennel Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Butter Beans Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances rustic Italian flavors with a creamy, comforting sauce, then you’re in for a treat with the Sausage Fennel Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Butter Beans Recipe. This delightful meal brings together juicy sausage meatballs infused with fragrant fennel, nestled in a luscious tomato and butter bean sauce enriched with a touch of cream. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and your plate with hearty satisfaction, making every bite a warm hug on a fork.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Sausage Fennel Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Butter Beans Recipe lies not in complicated ingredients, but in a thoughtful combination of simple staples that build layers of flavor and texture. Each element—from the fennel’s subtle sweetness to the creamy tomato sauce—plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): Provides the flavorful and juicy base for the meatballs.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender.
- 1 egg: Acts as a glue to hold all the meatball ingredients together.
- 1/2 small fennel bulb finely chopped: Adds a delicate, anise-like sweetness and crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Brings a punch of aromatic depth to the meatball mixture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a savory, umami richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle heat for those who like a bit of spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning all components to perfection.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for browning the meatballs and building flavor in the skillet.
- 1 can (15 ounces) butter beans drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and protein to the sauce.
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Forms the vibrant, tangy base of the sauce.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream: Turns the tomato sauce luxuriously smooth and rich.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the tomatoes with warm herbaceous notes.
- Fresh basil or fennel fronds for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, bright finish to your dish.
How to Make Sausage Fennel Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Butter Beans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped fennel, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender and juicy without overworking the meat.
Step 2: Form and Brown the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown them on all sides for roughly 6 to 8 minutes total, creating a flavorful crust while keeping the inside moist. Once done, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce in the Skillet
Using the same skillet, add the tomato paste and cook it for about a minute to deepen its flavor. Then, stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and rinsed butter beans. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just right.
Step 4: Add Cream and Simmer the Meatballs
Stir the heavy cream into the tomato and butter bean sauce for that signature creamy texture. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for another 10 minutes until they are cooked through and all those beautiful flavors are married into one savory, comforting dish.
How to Serve Sausage Fennel Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Butter Beans Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness on top takes this dish to another level. Sprinkle some chopped fresh basil or fennel fronds right before serving to add a vibrant pop of color and a burst of herbal aroma that perfectly complements the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy tomato butter bean sauce. Alternatively, try serving it over creamy polenta or even simple buttered pasta to keep things cozy and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the meatballs and sauce in small individual cast iron skillets, making each portion feel special and perfect for sharing. Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an elegant finish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Sausage Fennel Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Butter Beans Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for easy, flavorful next-day meals.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Place cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for convenience or reheat gently from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat to keep the meatballs tender and prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a splash of water or stock if the sauce thickens too much. Microwave reheating works as well, just cover to keep moisture.
FAQs
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and form the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them tightly covered until ready to cook. This saves time and helps the flavors develop even more.
Can I substitute the Italian sausage with another type of meat?
Yes, feel free to use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version. Just make sure to adjust cooking time slightly if needed and check seasoning since flavors can vary.
What can I use instead of butter beans?
If butter beans aren’t available, cannellini or great northern beans make excellent substitutes, offering a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with the rich tomato sauce.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe can be as mild or as spicy as you like. The crushed red pepper flakes are optional—add them if you enjoy a gentle heat or skip them for a milder taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure your sausage and other canned ingredients don’t contain gluten, making this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Fennel Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Butter Beans Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a celebration of simple, honest ingredients done right. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal to share, the rich flavors and creamy sauce are sure to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try—you won’t regret inviting this hearty, flavorful dish to your table.
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Sausage Fennel Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Butter Beans Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Sausage Fennel Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Butter Beans is a flavorful Italian-inspired main course featuring tender meatballs made with Italian sausage and fennel, simmered in a rich tomato and creamy butter bean sauce. This hearty skillet dish offers a comforting blend of savory and aromatic elements, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 small fennel bulb, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce and Beans
- 1 can (15 ounces) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil or fennel fronds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped fennel, garlic, Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined without overworking the mixture.
- Form meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Brown the meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding, and cook them until browned on all sides, approximately 6 to 8 minutes in total. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce base: In the same skillet, add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 1 minute to develop its flavor.
- Add tomatoes and beans: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and drained butter beans. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Incorporate cream and finish cooking: Stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or fennel fronds if desired. Serve the meatballs hot with the creamy tomato butter bean sauce.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute the Italian sausage with chicken or turkey sausage.
- Serve with crusty bread or over creamy polenta for a complete meal.
- Ensure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
