how to make italian meatballs recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
how to make italian meatballs recipe
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The Best how to make italian meatballs recipe

This Italian meatballs recipe is one of my family’s favorites. We love it because it’s easy to make and can be served for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The flavors are rich and savory, with the perfect balance of herbs and spices.

I like to serve it with a side of pasta or a green salad for a well-rounded meal. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their go-to activities. They enjoy mixing the meat mixture and rolling the meatballs into perfect little spheres.

It’s a fun and educational experience for them, and they’re proud to be a part of our family mealtime traditions. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and I’m so glad I can continue the tradition with my own children. When I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed, cooking this Italian meatballs recipe always helps me feel more centered and focused.

The process of preparing the ingredients, mixing the meat mixture, and cooking the meatballs is meditative and calming for me. It’s also a great way to spend quality time with my loved ones and create lasting memories. As we enjoy our meal together, we often talk about our day, share stories, and laugh together.

It’s these simple moments that make life so precious and worth sharing with others.

Classic Italian Meatballs

Classic Italian Meatballs

4.6 from 1898 votes

Tender and flavorful Italian meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for serving over pasta or as a hearty appetizer.

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
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil

For the Sauce

1 cup tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tbsp olive oil

For Serving

6 cups cooked pasta
grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and ground pork.
3Add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
4Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together when formed into balls.
6Form the meat mixture into balls about 1.
5 inches in diameter.
7Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
9Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
10While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.
11In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
12Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
13Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
14Pour in the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes.
15Stir in salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
16Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
17The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.
18Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully place them into the saucepan with the tomato sauce.
19Spoon the sauce over the meatballs to coat them evenly.
20Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
21Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked pasta.
22Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
23Enjoy your homemade Italian meatballs.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Saucepan
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or a mix of ground beef and turkey. Adding a bit of grated onion to the meatball mixture can enhance the flavor.

Watch Video Of How Classic Italian Meatballs Works

This Italian meatballs recipe is perfect for any occasion whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

You can store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

To reheat cooked meatballs simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Meatballs

Q1: What is the origin of Italian Meatballs?

A1: Italian Meatballs have their roots in Italy where they were originally made with beef or pork mixed with breadcrumbs and various seasonings.

Q2: How do I store leftover Italian Meatballs?

A2: You can store leftover Italian Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

Q3: Can I make Italian Meatballs ahead of time?

A3: Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to cook.

Q4: How do I reheat Italian Meatballs?

A4: You can reheat cooked Italian Meatballs by baking them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Q5: What are some popular ways to serve Italian Meatballs?

A5: You can serve Italian Meatballs with pasta such as spaghetti or linguine topped with marinara sauce or use them as an appetizer served with toothpicks.

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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