Tikka Masala Meatballs in Creamy Sauce

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by Sarah Conley

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You know that moment when you take a bite of something so delicious, that it feels like a warm hug for your taste buds? That’s exactly what Tikka Masala Meatballs deliver. Imagine tender meatballs infused with the exotic spices of India, swimming in a creamy tomato sauce that dances on your palate. taco casserole with spices The aroma wafting from your kitchen will make even the most stubborn of eaters abandon their snacks and flock to the table, eager to indulge.

Tikka Masala Meatballs in Creamy Sauce
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Now, let me take you back to the time I first attempted to make these delightful Tikka Masala Meatballs. It was a weekend dinner with friends, and I figured I’d impress them with my culinary skills. Spoiler alert: I ended up with more sauce on my shirt than in the pot! But hey, laughter is the best seasoning, right? Every mishap turned into a memory, and eventually, we all enjoyed this amazing dish together. flavorful birria tacos Trust me; your friends will love you for it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These Tikka Masala Meatballs are super easy to prepare and bursting with flavor
  • Their vibrant color and rich aroma will captivate everyone at your dinner table
  • Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings, they can be served over rice or in sandwiches
  • Plus, they freeze beautifully for easy meal prep later!

I still chuckle when I think about how my friends devoured these meatballs while teasing me about my cooking chaos. The joy on their faces made every splatter worth it.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Chicken or Turkey: Choose lean meat for juicier meatballs; turkey adds a nice flavor twist. comforting chicken and dumplings.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs perfectly.
  • Fresh Garlic: Always go for fresh; it brings an aromatic kick to the dish.
  • Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and moisture; sauté until translucent.
  • Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish; feel free to substitute parsley if needed.
  • Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): Essential for an authentic tikka masala flavor profile; don’t skimp!
  • Coconut Milk or Cream: For richness in the sauce; full-fat coconut milk works wonders!
  • Crushed Tomatoes: Use canned crushed tomatoes for convenience and consistent flavor.
  • Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice enhances flavors and adds brightness.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that tie everything together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Mixing It Up: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken or turkey with breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cilantro, and spices until well blended. Don’t forget to put some elbow grease into it!

Forming Meatballs: Roll mixture into 1-inch meatballs using wet hands to prevent sticking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper as you go along.

Searing the Meatballs: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides—about 6-8 minutes total—turning occasionally.

Making the Sauce: In the same skillet after removing meatballs, add crushed tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir well while bringing it to a simmer over medium heat—let those flavors mingle! For more inspiration, check out this beef and cheese chimichangas recipe.

Simmering Together : Carefully return meatballs back into the sauce. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and coated in that luscious sauce.

Finishing Touches : Add lemon juice before serving for extra zestiness! Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for that Instagram-worthy finish.

Now you’re ready to serve these mouthwatering Tikka Masala Meatballs! You’ll have everyone coming back for seconds—just remember to wear an apron (or two)! Enjoy!

You Must Know

  • Tikka Masala Meatballs create an explosion of flavor with tender meatballs soaked in a creamy, spiced sauce
  • This dish is perfect for impressing guests or indulging in comfort food
  • The aroma of spices fills your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your meatball ingredients and forming them into balls, then sear until golden before simmering in the tikka masala sauce for optimal flavor.

Tikka Masala Meatballs in Creamy Sauce

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground chicken for beef or add vegetables like spinach for extra nutrition and color, giving your dish a unique twist. ground beef and veggies.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Tikka Masala Meatballs in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh spices for a brighter flavor and ensure even cooking by spacing meatballs apart
  • Don’t rush the simmering process; let the flavors meld beautifully for a richer taste

There was that one dinner party when I served these Tikka Masala Meatballs, and they vanished faster than a magician’s rabbit—everyone kept asking for seconds!

Tikka Masala Meatballs in Creamy Sauce

FAQ

Can I make Tikka Masala Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

What can I serve with Tikka Masala Meatballs?

Serve them with rice or naan to soak up the delicious sauce.

How spicy are Tikka Masala Meatballs?

The spice level can be adjusted by altering the amount of garam masala used.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Tikka Masala Meatballs in Creamy Sauce

Tikka Masala Meatballs


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  • Author: Gordon Calloway
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Description

Tikka Masala Meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors that will elevate your dining experience. These tender meatballs, infused with aromatic spices and enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce, create a comforting dish that entices everyone to the table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
  • 1/2 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken or turkey, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, cilantro, and spices. Mix until well blended.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using wet hands to prevent sticking.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear meatballs in batches until browned on all sides (about 6-8 minutes).
  4. Remove meatballs and add crushed tomatoes and coconut milk to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  5. Return meatballs to the sauce and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Finish with lemon juice before serving and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Searing/Simmering
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 meatballs (150g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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