Juicy meatballs, velvety cream sauce, and vibrant bell peppers come together in this one-pan wonder to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. This Creamy Dreamy Meatballs and Pepper Skillet recipe is simple to prepare, easy on cleanup, and absolutely bursting with rich, hearty flavors. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner for the family or an impressive dish for guests, this skillet recipe has you covered.

Read on for everything you need to know to make your new favorite comfort food.

Ingredients for Creamy Dreamy Meatballs and Pepper Skillet

Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef (or beef/pork blend for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Skillet Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Substitution ideas

• No breadcrumbs? Try almond flour for a low-carb option or crushed crackers.
• Use Greek yogurt or sour cream in place of heavy cream for a slightly tangy twist.
• Swap bell peppers for zucchini or mushrooms to mix up the veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Meatballs

Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix until just combined (don’t overwork the meat), then form into small, even-sized meatballs.

2. Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, turning gently. They don’t need to cook through yet, as they’ll finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the meatballs and set them aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Peppers

Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers to the same skillet. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, releasing those fragrant aromas.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream, beef broth, Dijon mustard, and a light sprinkle of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine.

5. Simmer with the Meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Lower the heat and allow everything to simmer together for about 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are completely cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

6. Serve and Garnish

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the skillet before serving. Pair with rice, buttered pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that creamy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Not only is this skillet dinner incredibly tasty, but it also offers several health benefits thanks to its nutrient-packed ingredients. Bell peppers are full of vitamins A and C, which boost immune function and promote healthy skin. The beef provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, while the creamy sauce adds satisfying richness to the meal.

Delicious Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Dreamy Meatballs and Pepper Skillet pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal even further:

• Comfort Food Classic: Serve over buttery mashed potatoes to soak up that creamy sauce.
• Low-Carb Option: Spoon the meatballs and sauce over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Go Italian: Pair with your favorite pasta, like linguine or penne.
• The Bread Lover’s Choice: Enjoy with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping.

Recipe Variations to Try

Get creative and make this dish your own with these variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for a touch of heat.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese at the end for an extra cheesy sauce.
• Chicken Swap: Use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Herby Flair: Add fresh basil or thyme to the sauce for an herby twist.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Skillet

• Use a cookie scoop to portion out the meatballs evenly. This ensures uniform cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the meatballs. Work in batches if necessary.
• If the sauce gets too thick, thin it out with an extra splash of beef broth or cream.

Storing and Reheating

Storing

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce. Add a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• For a quick option, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls for a flawless dish:

• Overworking the meatballs can make them tough. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
• Skipping the browning step results in less flavor. Browning the meatballs adds depth to the dish.
• High heat when cooking the sauce may cause it to curdle. Keep the heat on low and stir frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce separately up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge and combine them in the skillet when ready to serve.

Can I use a plant-based substitute?

Yes! Use a meat substitute such as plant-based ground “beef” and substitute the cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based alternative for a vegan version.

What size should the meatballs be?

Aim for meatballs about 1–1.5 inches in diameter for even cooking.

Bring Comfort to Your Table Tonight

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a cozy, one-pan recipe that delivers on flavor and ease of cooking. This Creamy Dreamy Meatballs and Pepper Skillet is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.