Made these 'Marry Me' balls for my hubby when we first started dating. Needless to say, they worked

There's a certain charm to this dish, one that binds the simplicity of rural life with the richness of Midwestern tradition. Marry Me Meatballs are a heartwarming recipe that harkens back to the days when a good meal could solve most of life's little problems. They're called 'marry me' because, as the legend goes, they're so delicious they might just inspire a proposal! This recipe brings together a tender, juicy, savory experience, perfect for those cozy nights when family stories and laughter fill the kitchen.

These meatballs are delightfully versatile and pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered peas, or a warm, crusty loaf of bread. For that nostalgic Sunday dinner feel, serve them alongside a hearty helping of homemade macaroni and cheese or a fresh garden salad. A glass of sweet iced tea or a robust red wine makes the perfect companion as you gather around the table.

Servings: 4

1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup marinara sauce

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork, mixing gently with your hands.

Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning to ensure they are seared on all sides.

Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Serve hot, with extra sauce drizzled over the top and additional Parmesan if desired.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or replace the parsley with basil for a different aromatic note. If you're feeling adventurous, substitute the marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a completely different taste profile. To make it a full meal, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce. Remember, these meatballs freeze beautifully, so consider making a double batch and savoring them on a day when time is short but hunger is large.