When it comes to savory, flavorful dishes that are sure to impress, few ingredients can rival the tender and delicious taste of ground veal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newcomer, ground veal offers endless possibilities for creative and mouthwatering meals. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delectable recipes that showcase the versatility of ground veal in dishes from classic Italian comfort food to Mediterranean-inspired kebabs.
From hearty meatballs to creamy risotto, we’ve gathered a collection of recipes that are sure to satisfy any palate. With flavors ranging from herby and aromatic to rich and savory, these dishes are perfect for special occasions or cozy nights at home. So why not give ground veal a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
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Classic Italian Veal Meatballs
This beloved Italian dish has been a staple of family gatherings and special occasions for generations. These tender veal meatballs, flavored with parsley, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground veal
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground veal, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Veal Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender veal with fresh herbs and bell peppers for a delicious and impressive main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound veal cutlets, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add veal and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. Add garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the veal. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the veal mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of each pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Veal and Mushroom Risotto
A classic Italian dish that combines tender veal with earthy mushrooms and a rich creamy risotto, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound veal scallopini, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add veal and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
2. In same pan, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, combine Arborio rice and warmed broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
4. Stir in white wine (if using) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked veal and mushrooms with risotto; season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Veal and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender veal, wilted spinach, and cheesy goodness inside jumbo shells. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground veal
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook veal, onion, and garlic until browned. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked veal mixture, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the veal mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the shells, then top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Veal Kofta Kebabs
Mediterranean Veal Kofta Kebabs: Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these tender veal koftas infused with herbs and spices, perfectly grilled on skewers.
Ingredients:
– 500g veal mince
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine veal mince, onion, garlic, olive oil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 10-12 portions, depending on desired kebab size.
4. Thread each portion onto skewers, leaving a small space between each kofta.
5. Brush skewers with olive oil to prevent sticking.
6. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges (if desired) for a burst of citrus flavor.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Veal and Parmesan Meatloaf
This Veal and Parmesan Meatloaf recipe combines the tender flavor of veal with the savory taste of Parmesan cheese, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional meatloaf. Perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground veal
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground veal, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Veal Bolognese with Fresh Pappardelle
This classic Italian dish combines tender veal ragù with fresh pappardelle, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground veal
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces fresh pappardelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the veal ragù: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic, cook until browned, then add ground veal. Cook, breaking up with spoon, until no longer pink.
2. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes.
3. Cook pappardelle: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta for 30-40 seconds or until al dente. Drain and serve with veal ragù.
4. Serve with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Veal and Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni
This classic Italian dish combines tender veal and creamy ricotta cheese with flavorful tomato sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious cannelloni pasta. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cannelloni tubes
– 1 pound ground veal
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cannelloni tubes according to package instructions.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground veal, ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked cannelloni tube with the veal-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed cannelloni in a baking dish and cover with tomato sauce.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the pasta is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Veal and Sage Sausage Patties
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these tender and flavorful veal and sage sausage patties, perfect for serving on a toasted English muffin or as part of a hearty breakfast plate.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound veal sausage meat
– 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns or English muffins (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine veal sausage meat, chopped sage, olive oil, and chopped onion. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Serve on toasted English muffins or as part of a breakfast plate.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Veal and Caramelized Onion Tart
Elevate your taste buds with this savory tart featuring tender veal and sweet caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 pound veal scallopini or thinly sliced veal breast
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a large skillet, cook veal over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Let cool completely.
3. Caramelize onions in the same skillet with olive oil over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Arrange cooled veal on one half of pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with caramelized onions.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling and press edges to seal. Brush top with beaten egg.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Veal and Artichoke Stuffed Ravioli
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy Veal and Artichoke Stuffed Ravioli recipe. Tender veal and artichoke hearts are combined with Parmesan cheese, then wrapped in fresh pasta for a truly decadent dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound veal, cooked and finely chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh pasta (homemade or store-bought), for wrapping ravioli
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine veal, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, egg, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Wrap the filling mixture within fresh pasta squares, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Place ravioli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
5. Drizzle olive oil over ravioli and season with salt.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Veal and Fontina Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Elevate your chicken game with this rich and savory recipe, featuring tender veal and melted fontina cheese inside juicy chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup veal, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup fontina cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine veal, fontina cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the veal mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
6. Dot the tops of the breasts with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Veal and Roasted Garlic Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your classic shepherd’s pie with the rich flavors of veal and roasted garlic. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb veal ground, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and roasted (see note)
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the veal, onion, and roasted garlic over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add peas, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To roast garlic, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top of a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender. Squeeze out the cloves and use as directed.
Veal and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Bake
This comforting casserole combines tender veal strips with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb veal strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add veal and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet; cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, veal mixture, mozzarella cheese, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Veal and Zucchini Fritters with Tzatziki
These crispy fritters are packed with tender veal, crunchy zucchini, and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Serve them alongside a tangy tzatziki sauce for a delightful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground veal
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine veal, zucchini, flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the veal mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mixing well to combine. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for fritters, plus preparation time for tzatziki sauce.
Veal and Wild Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
A twist on traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, this recipe combines tender veal with the nutty flavor of wild rice for a hearty and satisfying main dish. Perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground veal
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water until soft. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground veal, cooked wild rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place about 1/4 cup of the veal mixture onto the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Place rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Veal and Gruyère Cheese Soufflé
Veal and Gruyère Cheese Soufflé Recipe
Elevate your dinner party with this rich and creamy soufflé, featuring tender veal and the nutty flavors of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound veal scallopini, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the veal in butter until browned; set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cream, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère cheese until melted.
6. Beat egg yolks and season with salt and pepper. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cheese mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
7. Fold the cooked veal into the egg yolk mixture.
8. Pour the mixture into buttered soufflé dishes and bake for 25-30 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Veal and Lentil Stew with Herbs
This hearty stew combines tender veal, nutritious lentils, and a blend of aromatic herbs for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound veal cubes
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the veal cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onions and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Stir in browned veal cubes.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until lentils are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of ground veal with these 18 savory recipe ideas. From classic Italian-style meatballs to Mediterranean-inspired kofta kebabs, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Enjoy comforting dishes like creamy risotto and bolognese sauce, or try more adventurous options like stuffed bell peppers and cabbage rolls. These recipes showcase the rich flavor of veal paired with a variety of herbs, cheeses, and vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this collection has something deliciously versatile to offer.
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