Ground veal is an incredibly versatile ingredient that deserves a spot in every home cook’s repertoire. With its mild flavor and tender texture, it’s the perfect addition to a wide range of dishes. From hearty meatballs and juicy burgers to rich meatloaf and creamy Bolognese sauce, ground veal is the ultimate culinary chameleon. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, this humble ingredient has got you covered. In the following pages, we’ll delve into 32 easy-to-make ground veal recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
32 Easy Ground Veal Recipes
Veal Meatballs
To begin, combine ground veal, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Work the ingredients together until they form a cohesive mixture. Next, shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls, taking care to apply gentle pressure to ensure each sphere is evenly formed. Place the veal balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven until cooked through. Once done, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving with your preferred tomato sauce.
Veal Scallopini
In the realm of Italian cuisine, Veal Scallopini is a beloved dish that never fails to impress. This classic recipe involves delicately slicing veal into thin strips, then sautéing it in a subtle sauce infused with the brightness of lemon, the richness of butter, and the subtlety of herbs. The result is a main course that’s at once quick to prepare, elegant in presentation, and renowned for its refined flavor profile and tender texture. When served alongside pasta or risotto, Veal Scallopini truly comes alive as a harmonious union of flavors and textures.
Veal Burgers
To create the veal patties, combine ground veal, finely chopped onions, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Use your hands to shape the mixture into uniform patties, making sure they’re not too thick or too thin. Then, cook the patties on the grill or in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat until they’re cooked through and lightly browned on both sides. Once done, serve them with your preferred toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, cheese, and condiments.
Veal Shepherd’s Pie
To create a hearty and flavorful dish, start by browning ground veal in a pan with sautéed onions and garlic. Once the veal is fully cooked, add frozen mixed vegetables and beef broth to the pan, stirring well to combine. Next, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top it with a layer of mashed potatoes. Place the dish in the oven and bake until the potatoes are golden brown, allowing the flavors to meld together and the veal to cook through.
Veal Ragù
A culinary delight that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine, veal ragù is a slow-cooked masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds. The tender veal, simmered with an array of aromatic ingredients, vegetables, and wine, melds together to create a richly flavored sauce that’s perfect for pairing with pasta dishes, polenta, or even lasagna.
Veal Tacos
Savory browned veal, infused with the aromatic flavors of sautéed onions and garlic, takes center stage as a unique twist on traditional tacos. Simply cook the ground veal in a pan with minced onions and garlic until it’s nicely browned, then season with taco seasoning for an added depth of flavor. Serve the resulting mixture in crispy taco shells alongside a medley of fresh toppings, including shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a dollop of creamy sour cream, and a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Italian Stuffed Eggplant with Ground Veal
The humble eggplant takes on a new dimension when transformed into tender boats, filled with a rich and savory blend of ground veal, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese. The combination of textures – the soft, slightly sweet eggplant giving way to the coarse, meaty veal mixture – is nothing short of delightful. As the dish emerges from the oven, perfectly baked and golden brown, it’s hard not to be drawn in by its hearty, satisfying aroma and flavor.
Ground Veal Eggplant Rollatini
The classic Italian dish gets a creative spin with ground veal eggplant rollatini. This innovative recipe combines the richness of seasoned ground veal with creamy cheese filling, all wrapped in tender eggplant slices that have been pan-fried to perfection. The dish takes on a new dimension when baked in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, resulting in a comforting and visually stunning meal perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknights.
Kofta Kabobs
In the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine, kofta kebabs take center stage as savory skewers of expertly seasoned ground veal. The aromatic blend of spices and herbs infuses every bite with depth and complexity, making them a staple in many regional dishes. Whether grilled to perfection or baked to a tender crisp, these flavorful treats are often paired with an assortment of accompaniments – think pita bread, creamy dips, and fresh salads – for a truly satisfying culinary experience.
Veal Steamed Dumplings
Savor the subtlety of veal steamed dumplings, where tender pockets of flavor await discovery. A blend of ground veal and carefully crafted seasonings is enveloped in delicate dough, yielding a harmonious balance of textures and tastes when expertly steamed. Whether served as an elegant appetizer or a satisfying main course, these bite-sized delights can be further elevated by your choice of dipping sauces.
Veal Stuffed Manicotti Florentine
A sumptuous culinary experience awaits with Veal Stuffed Manicotti Florentine, a dish that seamlessly combines tender pasta shells filled with a rich medley of ground veal, spinach, and ricotta cheese. The creamy bechamel sauce infuses the dish with an indulgent essence, while the sprinkle of Parmesan adds a satisfying textural contrast, making this a truly special occasion-worthy creation.
Veal Escalopes
A staple of Italian cuisine, Scaloppine al Limone – also known as veal escalopes in lemon sauce – is a dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors with effortless preparation. By thinly pounding veal cutlets and pan-frying them to a golden brown, the foundation for a delightful culinary experience is set. The crowning glory comes in the form of a tangy and creamy sauce, crafted from a harmonious blend of lemon juice, butter, and white wine. This delectable fusion of savory and acidic notes culminates in an elegant meal that can be prepared with haste, yet still manages to impress.
Veal Marsala
In the realm of Italian cuisine, veal marsala stands out as a timeless favorite. This revered dish consists of tenderized veal cutlets smothered in a sumptuous Marsala wine sauce, richly infused with the earthy essence of sautéed mushrooms.
Veal Milanese Sandwich Mexican-Style
At the heart of a Veal Milanese sandwich lies a delicate veal cutlet, cooked to a golden crispiness through pan-frying techniques. Typically, this flavorful centerpiece is nestled within a toasted bun, elevated by the brightness of lemon juice and garnished with peppery fresh arugula or other leafy greens, crafting an refined and enjoyable culinary experience.
Veal Parmesan
Veal Parmesan is a quintessential Italian-American culinary creation that boasts tender, breaded, and pan-fried veal cutlets as its star attraction. The dish is elevated by the harmonious union of rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, often in the form of Parmesan, although mozzarella is a popular alternative. This beloved classic is typically served alongside pasta or an assortment of vegetables, resulting in a satisfying and deeply flavorful meal that leaves a lasting impression.
Veal Saltimbocca
In Italian cuisine, Veal Saltimbocca is an iconic dish that combines the finesse of thin veal cutlets with the bold flavors of prosciutto and fragrant sage leaves. The harmony of textures and tastes is what makes this dish truly special: the satisfying crunch of the prosciutto, the tender succulence of the veal, and the earthy depth of the sage all come together to create a culinary experience that’s both refined and indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or an impressive centerpiece for your next dinner party, Veal Saltimbocca is sure to impress with its simplicity, elegance, and sheer flavor profile.
Veal Chops
Satisfy your cravings with a mouth-watering meal that’s ready in a flash! This recipe for succulent veal chops is a game-changer, requiring minimal prep time but delivering maximum flavor. The secret to its success lies in the aromatic marinade of orange juice and rosemary, which infuses the meat with a deep, herby goodness. In under 20 minutes, you’ll be indulging in perfectly cooked chops that boast a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior.
Veal Piccata
To prepare the veal cutlets, start by dredging them thinly sliced pieces through a mixture of flour, ensuring they are evenly coated. Next, heat a pan with some oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and capers to the pan, sautéing until fragrant and lightly browned. Once the aromatics are cooked, add the floured veal cutlets to the pan and cook for a couple of minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of browning. Remove the veal from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter. Stir the sauce to combine and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Finally, serve the veal cutlets with the rich and tangy sauce spooned over top, alongside some cooked pasta of your choice.
Veal Milanese
A quintessential Italian culinary experience, Veal Milanese is elevated by the harmonious union of tender veal, crunchy breadcrumb coating, and a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese. The pan-frying process imbues the dish with an unparalleled crispiness, resulting in a satisfyingly simple yet indulgent meal that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Vegetable Veal Stew
Savory veal tenderly cooks alongside an assortment of wholesome vegetables in a nourishing stew that embodies the epitome of comfort food. This hearty dish harmoniously blends the delicate flavor of veal with the earthy sweetness of vegetables, making it an ideal choice for a cozy meal. With endless variations to cater to individual tastes and dietary requirements, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Veal Shanks
Veal shanks, a cut of meat from the calf’s leg, are renowned for their rich flavor profile when cooked slowly. The key to unlocking their tender texture lies in braising them in flavorful liquids, making them an ideal choice for hearty stews, osso buco-style dishes, or fall-apart pot roasts that are sure to warm the soul.
Veal and Vegetable Skewers
Thread thinly sliced veal strips alternately with vibrant slices of bell peppers, tender zucchini, and sweet red onion onto skewers. Place the skewers on a preheated grill and cook until the veal reaches a safe internal temperature and the vegetables are perfectly tender. For added flavor and moisture, serve with your preferred sauce or marinade.
Veal and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Transform cooked pasta shells into delectable stuffed delights by combining them with a flavorful blend of ground veal, wilted spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, and fragrant herbs. Then, bake the filled shells to perfection in a rich tomato sauce infused with melted mozzarella cheese until it’s golden brown and bubbly.
Veal Goulash
To create this hearty dish, begin by sautéing browned ground veal with caramelized onions and pungent garlic in a pot. Once the mixture is fragrant, add diced tomatoes that have been seasoned with smoked paprika and rich beef broth. Allow the goulash to simmer for an extended period, allowing the bold flavors to meld together harmoniously. Finally, serve the stew over a bed of egg noodles, providing a comforting contrast in texture.
Veal Kofta
Incorporating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, combine ground veal with finely chopped onions, garlic, and a medley of aromatic Middle Eastern spices. Shape the mixture into succulent kebabs and grill them to caramelized perfection. Serve alongside warm pita bread, a creamy drizzle of tahini sauce, and a vibrant arrangement of fresh vegetables for a delightful culinary experience.
Veal and Mushroom Pappardelle
To create a delectable dish, start by cooking ground veal to perfection. Sear the meat in a pan with sautéed mushrooms and onions until they’re tender and lightly browned. Next, add a light and creamy sauce made with cream, then toss everything together with cooked pappardelle pasta. Finish the dish off by sprinkling fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese on top.
Veal and Swiss Chard Wraps
Transforming the humble Swiss chard leaf into a culinary masterpiece is a delightful endeavor. Simply layer this leafy green with an aromatic blend of ground veal, fluffy rice, sweet diced tomatoes, and fragrant herbs to create a delectable filling. Once assembled, gently simmer these wraps in rich tomato sauce until the flavors are thoroughly infused.
Veal Gyros
Transforming the flavors of the season, marinate tender veal in a blend of aromatic Mediterranean spices before searing it to a rich, caramelized brown. This savory delight is then nestled within the warmth of pita bread, accompanied by the cooling creaminess of Tzatziki sauce, the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, and the pungency of onions.
Veal Pita Pockets
Transform plain pita bread into mouthwatering treats by stuffing them with an enticing combination of flavorful ingredients. The foundation of this delightful snack is a generous helping of seasoned ground veal, carefully balanced with crisp lettuce leaves and refreshing cucumber slices. To add a tangy twist, drizzle the filling with a creamy yogurt-based dressing that will elevate each bite to a new level.
Veal Ratatouille
Transform the flavors of Provence into a hearty and satisfying dish by cooking a rich ratatouille. Start by browning ground veal with a medley of colorful vegetables – eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes – allowing each ingredient to develop its natural sweetness before combining them in harmony. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of aromatic herbs and serve it over couscous or quinoa for a wholesome meal that will leave you feeling full and content.
Veal and Cabbage Rolls
To craft these traditional dishes, start by filling blanched cabbage leaves with a harmonious blend of ground veal, cooked rice, sautéed onions, and an assortment of aromatic herbs. Once assembled, cook the rolls in a rich tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to mature and meld together in perfect harmony.
Veal Sausage Patties
Transform your cooking with homemade veal sausage patties, crafted by blending ground veal with a harmonious blend of spices such as fennel, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Sear them in a pan and serve for breakfast or nestled within sandwiches. The result is a culinary delight that will elevate your mealtime experiences.
In conclusion, ground veal is an incredibly versatile and flavorful component that can be leveraged to create a wide array of delectable dishes. From hearty meatballs and juicy burgers to rich Bolognese sauce and satisfying meatloaf, the possibilities are virtually endless. As you peruse these 32 effortless ground veal recipes, we hope you’re inspired to push beyond your culinary comfort zone and experiment with something new.