Weekend: What to Do When Your MIL Won’t Listen 😤

It Doesn’t Get More Comforting Than These Cheesy Pesto Baked Meatballs

theSkimm

Look, a lot happened this week. So we hereby grant you permission (not that you need it) to lean into all things chill and comforting this weekend — starting with these Cheesy Pesto Baked Meatballs with Burrata from How Sweet Eats. The perfectly tender little guys are packed with Parmesan, garlic, and a generous helping of fresh herbs, then smothered with marinara, globs of melty burrata cheese, and a nutty pesto. Add some buttery garlic toasts on the side (ideal for dunking in the saucy goodness) — and you’ve got the culinary equivalent of a nice, warm hug.

The Time Commitment: About 45 minutes — which is honestly the most time and energy we’re willing to expend right now.

Key Tips: Do your meatballs always wind up as dry as a 100-degree day in Las Vegas? Luckily, these are made with ricotta, which is the secret to keeping them moist. Also, be careful not to pack the meat too tightly, so they don’t become rubbery and chewy. And make sure to oil your hands before forming the meatballs to prevent sticking. (If touching meat grosses you out, you can use an ice cream scoop instead.)

Other Takes: Few things are more versatile than meatballs. Take this hearty Pastina Soup with Basil Chicken Meatballs and Escarole, which is perfect for a long day, sick day, or any day. Meanwhile, these Cheesy French Onion Meatballs are inspired by the French classic, so expect caramelized onions, gooey Gruyère cheese, and “the best dinner [you’ve] made all year.” But if you’re looking for something lighter and brighter, fill a few lettuce cups with these Pork Meatballs with Ginger and Fish Sauce. Or, add these minty Greek Lamb Meatballs to a chopped Greek salad and cover everything with the “what dreams are made of” feta tzatziki.