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Classic Italian Meatballs
Creating Classic Italian Meatballs at home is a culinary journey that many cherish. With their rich flavors, tender texture, and comforting aroma, these meatballs transport you straight to a bustling Italian kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming weeknight dinner, meal prep for a special event, or simply a satisfying dish to impress family and friends, this recipe will not disappoint.
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
This Classic Italian Meatballs recipe deserves a spot on your table for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for novice cooks or those short on time. It requires minimal ingredients, making it budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with loved ones, these meatballs are universally loved and kid-approved, making them an instant hit.
"These meatballs remind me of my grandma’s kitchen! Juicy, flavorful, and they pair perfectly with spaghetti." — A satisfied home cook
Your Easy Cooking Guide
Making Classic Italian Meatballs is a straightforward and rewarding process. The steps are simple, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time. You begin by prepping your ingredients, soaking the breadcrumbs, and then combining them with flavorful additions like fresh parsley and Parmesan. After forming the meatballs, they go into the oven to bake to perfection. Let’s break it down.
Gather Your Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (feel free to use Italian-style for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or substitute with basil for a twist!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
These ingredients come together to create a flavor-packed dish that can also be customized based on dietary preferences.
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Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix everything until well combined, then form the mixture into meatballs (about 1-2 inches in diameter).
- Place your meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Best Way to Serve
These Classic Italian Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways! Here are a few suggestions:
- Over spaghetti: The traditional pairing that never disappoints. Top with marinara sauce and extra Parmesan.
- In a sub sandwich: Make a meatball sub with melted cheese and marinara for a satisfying lunch.
- As an appetizer: Serve them on toothpicks with a side of marinara sauce for dipping during parties.
Storage Tips
To keep your Classic Italian Meatballs fresh, refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the meatballs before baking; just form them into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, and once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
Expert Advice
For the best meatball experience, consider these pro tips:
- Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined to keep your meatballs tender.
- Use a cookie scoop: This can help ensure uniform size for even cooking.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding crushed red pepper for a bit of heat or swap parsley for fresh basil.
Creative Twists
Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe! You can create different flavor profiles by:
- Adding spices: Mix in some cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor kick.
- Using different meats: Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used for a lighter version.
- Reviewing sauces: Experiment with BBQ sauce or creamy Alfredo for serving, instead of the usual marinara.
Your Questions Answered
-
How long does it take to prep and cook these meatballs?
- The total time is approximately 35-40 minutes, including preparation and baking.
-
Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, though it may result in a slightly different flavor.
-
Are these meatballs good for meal prep?
- Yes! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them a great option for meal prep.
These Classic Italian Meatballs are a lovely addition to any dining table, bringing warmth and authenticity to your meals. Happy cooking!
Print
Classic Italian Meatballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Tender and flavorful Italian meatballs that are easy to prepare and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix everything until well combined, then form the mixture into meatballs (about 1-2 inches in diameter).
- Place your meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Notes
For added flair, serve with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or as appetizers with marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Italian meatballs, easy meatballs, homemade meatballs, dinner recipe, comfort food
