Italian meatballs are a beloved staple of Italian cuisine, known for their rich flavors and tender texture. Perfectly seasoned and often served with a robust marinara sauce, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser at family dinners or gatherings. Whether you enjoy them on a bed of spaghetti or in a sub sandwich, this recipe will transform your meals into a delightful feast. Get ready to impress your family and friends with the comforting taste of homemade Italian meatballs!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 meatball, approximately 100g):
Calories: 250, Protein: 18g, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 10g, Fiber: 1g. This nutritional breakdown is based on one meatball.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork.
- Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until browned.
- While the meatballs bake, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan.
- Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve the meatballs over pasta or in a sub roll.
- Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and pork for a lighter version. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can replace traditional breadcrumbs, making this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Serving and Pairings
Italian meatballs are delicious served over spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or alongside a fresh garden salad. Pair with garlic bread and a glass of red wine for a complete meal experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. Italian meatballs can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the meat mixture can result in dense meatballs.
- Not preheating the oven can affect cooking time.
- Using too much breading can make meatballs dry.
- Skipping the simmering step can lead to dry meatballs.
- Not seasoning adequately can result in bland flavors.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, let the meat mixture sit for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs.
- Consider adding chopped onion for added moisture and flavor.
- Experiment with fresh herbs for a unique taste.
FAQs
Can I use only ground beef?
Yes, you can use only ground beef for the meatballs. However, mixing in pork adds moisture and enhances flavor.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?
Meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). A meat thermometer is the best way to check.
Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.
What sauce is best for Italian meatballs?
A classic marinara sauce complements Italian meatballs perfectly, but feel free to experiment with arrabbiata or pesto for a twist.
Can I bake meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, baking is a healthier option and still yields delicious results. Just ensure they are browned and cooked through.
Conclusion
Italian meatballs are a timeless dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. With this simple recipe, you can create a hearty meal that your family will love. Enjoy crafting these delightful meatballs and sharing them with loved ones!
Italian Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork.
- Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until browned.
- While the meatballs bake, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan.
- Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve the meatballs over pasta or in a sub roll.
- Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
