Craving a comforting, satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this classic Meatball recipe! Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, these meatballs are perfect served over pasta, in a hearty sandwich, or even enjoyed as a standalone appetizer. This recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring your meatballs are a guaranteed hit. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this foolproof meatball recipe that will become a new family favorite.
Before we dive into the detailed instructions, here’s a quick overview of the recipe:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition per serving (approximate):
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
Ingredients for the Best Meatball Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing meatballs. I’ve made sure to include alternatives wherever possible so you can customize the recipe to your liking.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 pound | Use 80/20 for best flavor. You can also use ground pork, turkey, or a combination. The quality of the ground beef is crucial for the flavor of the meatballs. |
| Ground Pork | 1/2 pound | Adds extra richness and flavor. If you don’t have ground pork, you can substitute with more ground beef. |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Use plain breadcrumbs or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs will create a slightly crispier texture. |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | Helps keep the meatballs moist and tender. You can also use heavy cream for extra richness. |
| Eggs | 2 large | Acts as a binder, holding the meatballs together. |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup, grated | Adds a salty, nutty flavor. Romano cheese is a good substitute. |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor. Use fresh garlic for the best results. |
| Onion | 1/2 medium, finely chopped | Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. |
| Fresh Parsley | 1/4 cup, chopped | Adds freshness and a pop of color. You can also use dried parsley if fresh isn’t available. |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 teaspoon | A blend of herbs that adds classic Italian flavor. |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances the flavor of all the ingredients. |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds a touch of spice. |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | For browning the meatballs. |
| Marinara Sauce | 24 oz jar | To cook the meatballs in. Use your favorite brand. |
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix Gently: Gently mix all ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs. The key to tender meatballs is to avoid overworking the mixture.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Browning adds a delicious depth of flavor and helps to seal in the juices.
- Simmer in Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Gently add the browned meatballs to the sauce.
- Cook the Meatballs: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer they simmer, the more flavorful and tender they will become. The sauce will also thicken as it cooks.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the meatballs hot over your favorite pasta, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pasta: Serve the meatballs over spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta.
- Sandwiches: Make delicious meatball subs with crusty bread, provolone cheese, and extra marinara sauce.
- Appetizer: Serve the meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks and a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Polenta: Serve over creamy polenta for a comforting Italian dish.
- Pizza Topping: Crumble the cooked meatballs and use them as a pizza topping.
These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat, cheeses, and herbs to create your own signature meatball recipe.
Tips and Notes for Perfect Meatballs:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture will result in tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use a Binder: Breadcrumbs and eggs act as a binder, holding the meatballs together.
- Brown the Meatballs: Browning the meatballs before simmering them in sauce adds a delicious depth of flavor.
- Simmer Slowly: Simmering the meatballs in sauce allows them to become tender and flavorful. The longer they simmer, the better.
- Add Moisture: Milk or cream helps keep the meatballs moist.
- Freeze for Later: Cooked meatballs freeze well. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be reheated in the sauce or in the oven.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the meatball mixture before forming the meatballs and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your meatballs. Some popular additions include oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika. You can also add vegetables like grated zucchini or carrots to the mixture for extra moisture and nutrients.
This meatball recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s simple, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy the best meatballs you’ve ever tasted! Remember, the key to perfect meatballs is to use high-quality ingredients, avoid overmixing, and simmer them slowly in a delicious sauce. These easy-to-make meatballs are perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. And don’t forget to freeze any leftovers for a quick and easy dinner option. The versatility of this meatball recipe ensures that there will always be something new to try.
Creating the perfect meatballs is a rewarding culinary experience. The aroma of simmering meatballs in marinara sauce fills the kitchen with warmth and anticipation. Each bite is a burst of flavor and comfort, making it a dish that brings people together. From the initial preparation to the final serving, this meatball recipe is designed to be simple and enjoyable. With a few key ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create meatballs that are both delicious and satisfying. The process of making meatballs is also a great way to involve family and friends in the kitchen. From mixing the ingredients to shaping the meatballs, everyone can participate and contribute to this classic dish. The joy of cooking together and sharing a meal is what makes this meatball recipe so special.
Enjoy your homemade meatballs! They are a testament to the simple pleasures of home cooking.
