Easy Meatball Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Italian meatballs. This classic dish has captured the hearts and palates of food lovers around the globe, thanks to its rich flavors and heartwarming aromas. Italian meatballs are not just a meal; they embody tradition, family gatherings, and culinary artistry. Whether served as a main dish paired with spaghetti, as an appetizer at a gathering, or even as a delightful addition to a sandwich, savory Italian meatball delights have earned their place in the pantheon of favorite comfort foods.

Discover the heartwarming comfort of Italian meatballs with our flavorful recipe guide. These savory delights, made from a blend of ground meats, breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs, are perfect for any occasion. Get tips on choosing the right ingredients, mastering the preparation, and pairing them with rich marinara sauce for an unforgettable meal. Whether served over pasta, in a sandwich, or as a tasty appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress family and friends alike. Join us on a culinary journey and bring a taste of Italy to your table!

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Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce

Olive oil for frying

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Use your hands to mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Form the Meatballs: With your hands, take a portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Transfer browned meatballs back to the baking sheet after browning.

Bake the Meatballs: Once all meatballs are browned, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Heat the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, pour the marinara sauce into another saucepan and heat over low-medium heat until warmed through.

Combine and Serve: Once the meatballs are done baking, add them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce, gently tossing to coat all the meatballs well. Serve them warm over pasta, on a sub for meatball sandwiches, or simply on their own with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and parsley on top.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | Serves 4-6