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Chorizo Meatballs with Risoni Recipe


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4.3 from 42 reviews

  • Author: Jane
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Juicy chorizo-spiced meatballs served with tender risoni pasta in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting and flavorful one-pan meal combines the smoky heat of chorizo with a hearty tomato base, perfect for an easy and satisfying weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 500 g pork or beef mince
  • 1/2 cup chorizo, finely chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Sauce and Pasta

  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 400 g canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup risoni (orzo pasta)
  • 2 cups chicken stock


Instructions

  1. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork or beef mince, finely chopped chorizo, egg, breadcrumbs, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
  2. Brown the meatballs: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil it. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides until they develop a golden crust, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned meatballs from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  4. Add tomatoes, risoni, and stock: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, the risoni pasta, and the chicken stock. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly in the pan.
  5. Simmer with meatballs: Return the browned meatballs to the pan, nestling them gently into the tomato and risoni mixture. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the risoni is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked through.

Notes

  • Add fresh spinach to the pan at the end of cooking for extra greens and a nutritional boost.
  • If the risoni absorbs too much liquid and the dish thickens too quickly, add additional chicken stock or water to maintain a saucy consistency.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Spanish-Inspired