Classic Italian Meatballs: A Timeless Family Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the hearty, homey goodness of Classic Italian Meatballs. These tender, flavorful bites are steeped in tradition, conjuring images of Sunday dinners at Nonna’s house, with the irresistible aroma of simmering marinara sauce filling the air. Whether served over a bed of spaghetti or tucked into a crusty sandwich, Italian meatballs are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

This recipe captures the essence of Italian cuisine—simple ingredients combined in a way that creates something truly magical. Let’s explore how you can bring this beloved dish into your kitchen with ease.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 3-4 meatballs with sauce
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Authentic Flavor: Brings the taste of Italy straight to your table.
2. Easy to Make: Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
3. Versatile: Enjoy over pasta, in sandwiches, or on their own.
4. Freezer-Friendly: Prepare in advance for quick meals.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• ½ pound ground pork
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients and Substitutions

Ground Meat

• Why It’s Essential: A combination of beef and pork provides the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
• Substitutions: Use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Breadcrumbs

• Why It’s Essential: Adds structure and moisture to the meatballs.
• Substitutions: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

Parmesan Cheese

• Why It’s Essential: Enhances the umami flavor in the meatballs.
• Substitutions: Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.

How to Make Classic Italian Meatballs (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Mixing the Meatball Ingredients

Combine the ingredients with a light hand to avoid compacting the mixture. A fork works well to mix everything evenly.

Step 2: Browning the Meatballs

Searing the meatballs adds a depth of flavor that enhances the sauce. Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even browning.

Step 3: Building the Sauce

The sauce is simple but flavorful. Letting it simmer with the meatballs deepens its richness and allows the flavors to meld.

Expert Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
2. Taste-Test the Mixture: Cook a small piece of the mixture to check the seasoning before forming all the meatballs.
3. Use a Scoop for Uniformity: A cookie scoop helps create evenly sized meatballs that cook at the same rate.

Variations and Customizations

1. Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for heat.
2. Herbed Meatballs: Incorporate fresh basil or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
3. Vegetarian Meatballs: Use a blend of lentils, mushrooms, and breadcrumbs for a plant-based version.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Warm meatballs and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Freezing

• Place cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Italian Meatballs pair beautifully with:

• Spaghetti: The ultimate traditional pairing.
• Polenta: A creamy base for soaking up the sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up every last drop of marinara.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

A: Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Parmesan is certified gluten-free.

Q: How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

A: Use the right ratio of breadcrumbs and eggs as binders, and avoid overmixing.

Related Recipes

1. Spaghetti Carbonara: Another Italian classic with rich, creamy flavors.
2. Chicken Parmesan: Crispy chicken cutlets smothered in marinara and cheese.
3. Bolognese Sauce: A slow-simmered meat sauce perfect for pasta nights.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a plate of Classic Italian Meatballs. Whether you’re making them for a special family gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers every time. Packed with flavor, easy to customize, and perfect for leftovers, these meatballs are bound to become a staple in your home.

Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bring a taste of Italy to your table tonight. Buon appetito!

Classic Italian Meatballs

Tender, flavorful meatballs infused with Italian herbs and spices, simmered in rich marinara sauce for the ultimate comfort meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Instant Pot

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 people

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Meatballs

• 1 po ground beef (85% lean)
• ½ po ground pork
• ½ po breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture

  In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, milk, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
• Step 2: Shape and Cook the Meatballs

  Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
• Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  In the same skillet, sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

  Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer
• Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs

  Add the browned meatballs to the sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld together.
• Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  Serve the meatballs hot over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or as a filling for sandwiches. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

• Use fresh herbs when available for a more robust flavor.
• Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick future meal.

Keyword Classic Italian Meatballs

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