Tender Orzo Meatballs

Giada is definitely one of my favorite Food Network Chefs. I just love her personality and her recipes always turn out amazing. So when I saw her Orzo Meatball recipe, I had to try it myself! I think these meatballs are also served at her restaurant in Las Vegas. I'm so glad I don't live anywhere near there because if I did, I'd be going to her restaurant on a weekly basis and spending a ton of money there. Anyway, these meatballs are super tender and crazy easy to make! Dr. Sweetpea was little thrown off by the orzo in these little gems, but after he took one bite, he was absolutely blown away. This recipe is definitely a keeper in our household :o)

Orzo Meatballs

(Source: Giada De Laurentiis)

2 slices of white bread, crust removed and cut into 1 inch pieces (about 1 1/2 cups)

1/2 cup milk, at room temperature

1 egg, whisked

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon dry oregano

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest, from 1/2 of a lemon

1 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup microplaned Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup orzo pasta, uncooked

1/4 pound ground pork

1/4 pound ground beef

1/4 pound ground veal

4 cups store bought marinara sauce

In a medium bowl, mix together the white bread, milk, egg and olive oil. Mix together the mixture using your hands and set aside to let the bread absorb the liquid, about 5 minutes.

To the bread mixture, add the oregano, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, garlic, salt, cheese and dry pasta and stir to combine with a rubber spatula. Add the meat to the bowl using your hands, gently mix into the bread mixture until just combined being careful not to over mix. Using a small scoop or a tablespoon, form the mixture into bite sized balls.

In a medium skillet, bring the tomato sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Add the balls to the sauce and cover the pan. Reduce the heat to medium low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the orzo in the meat balls is completely cooked. Serve the balls topped with additional parmesan cheese if desired.