Food Friday! Parmesan Meatballs

Fridays are going to be recipe days here on my blog, and I'm going to be giving you one of the recipes that I've fixed over the course of the week! I cook just about every night when I get home from work, and I like to encourage other women to do the same for their families! It makes the house seem more comfortable, and gives my husband and me a chance to sit down together without the distraction of TV, books, or a rambunctious puppy. It's turned into a great de-stresser after a long day at work, and even though some recipes are time-consuming, they are definitely worth it.

Chris and I had another newlywed couple, Cathy and James, over last night to eat with us. I'd like to add here that they are SUCH a joy to be around, and being around their love for one another is a really positive experience. Couples nights, where we can fellowship with other Christian spouses is great for our own relationship, besides being a lot of fun, and Cathy and James are just wonderful people.

Anyway, since we were having people over, Chris asked me to make one of his favorite dishes- parmesan meatballs. Before they left, Cathy asked for the recipe, so, Cathy, here you go!

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 can beef broth
• 2 tablespoons parsley

Directions:

1. Mix beef, cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, and 1/2 cup of the milk together with your hands in a large mixing bowl. Salt and pepper to taste.
2. Shape mixture into meatballs and set aside.
3. Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown quickly on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan drippings and melt. Whisk the flour and onion powder into the butter and then gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in remaining 1/2 cup milk. Return meatballs to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through.
5. Top with parsley.

I serve this with rice and green beans, which complement the flavor of the meatballs well, but I think mashed potatoes and peas or broccoli would work well too.