classic italian meatball recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
classic italian meatball recipe
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The Best classic italian meatball recipe

I’ve been making this classic Italian meatball recipe for years, and it’s still a family favorite. My kids love helping me mix and roll the meatballs, and they’re always excited to taste the finished product. There’s something special about this recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug on a cold day.

I think it’s because the combination of flavors and textures is just right – the savory meat, the tangy tomato sauce, and the perfect balance of herbs and spices. Plus, it’s a great way to get everyone involved in the kitchen. My husband loves it when I make this recipe because it reminds him of his childhood in Italy.

He says it’s just like his nonna used to make. As for me, I love how easy it is to make – just mix together some ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, form into balls, and bake until done. It’s a great recipe for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

And the best part? It’s actually pretty good for you too – lean ground beef and plenty of veggies make it a healthier option than most comfort foods. I’ve even started serving it over quinoa or zucchini noodles to make it more nutritious.

My family is always happy when I pull out this recipe – they know they’re in for a treat.

Classic Italian Meatballs

Classic Italian Meatballs

4.9 from 1135 votes

Juicy and flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for spaghetti or as a standalone dish.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

For the Sauce

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, parsley, and basil.
4Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.
5 inches in diameter.
6Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
7Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 160°F.
8While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.
9In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
10Add chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
11Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
12Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
13Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
14Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce.
15Spoon the sauce over the meatballs to coat them evenly.
16Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Large skillet
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick. Serve the meatballs over spaghetti or with crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Classic Italian Meatballs Works

One thing that really sets this classic Italian meatball recipe apart is its versatility – whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or main course, you can adjust the seasoning and ingredients to suit your taste buds.

My family loves when I serve these with some crusty bread or pasta on the side – it makes mealtime feel like an occasion!

Of course, leftovers are always welcome too – these freeze beautifully so we can enjoy them later as well.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Meatballs

Q: What type of meat should I use for these meatballs?

I prefer to use a combination of ground beef and pork for my meatballs – it gives them a nice balance of flavor and texture.

Q: How do you keep your meatballs moist?

Using breadcrumbs helps keep them moist – don’t forget to mix them in!

Q: Can I use pre-made breadcrumbs?

While store-bought breadcrumbs will work in a pinch, homemade ones are always better.

Q: Why do you use fresh herbs in this recipe?

Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano add an incredible depth of flavor that you just can’t replicate with dried herbs.

Q: How long can I store these meatballs in the fridge?

You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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