good italian meatball recipe

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The Best good italian meatball recipe

Growing up, my family always loved Italian food, and one of our favorites was homemade meatballs. This Good Italian Meatball Recipe is a classic that has been passed down through generations and is perfect for any occasion. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and herbs creates a flavor that is both comforting and delicious.

My kids love it when I make this for dinner. The meatballs are tender, juicy, and full of flavor. They are also a great source of protein, making them a healthy option for the whole family.

This recipe is versatile and can be served with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as a main dish with a side of vegetables. The best part is that it’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, saving time on busy weeknights. The sauce is rich and savory, complementing the meatballs perfectly.

The aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s cooking is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The meatballs are also a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet, as you can add finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the mixture. This recipe is a staple in my household and has become a tradition during holidays and family gatherings.

It’s a dish that brings everyone together, and the leftovers are always a hit. The meatballs freeze well, so you can make a large batch and have them ready for quick and easy meals throughout the week. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it is packed with protein and essential nutrients.

It’s a great way to ensure that your family is getting a balanced meal.

4.5 from 800 votes

This classic Italian meatball recipe is a family favorite, featuring tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for pasta nights or family gatherings.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time50 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef

1 pound ground pork

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup milk

2 eggs

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

For the Sauce

2 cups tomato sauce

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.

4Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

5The mixture should be moist but not watery.

6If it’s too dry, add a bit more milk.

7If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

8Using your hands, form the meat mixture into balls about 1.
5 inches in diameter.

9Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

10This should make about 20 meatballs.

11Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.

12The internal temperature should reach 160°F.

13Use a meat thermometer to check.

14Remove from the oven and set aside.

15While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.

16In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

17Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

18Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.

19Stir well to combine.

20Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

21The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.

22Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the saucepan with the simmering sauce.

23Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce.

24Let them simmer together for an additional 10-15 minutes.

25This allows the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce and become even more tender.

26The sauce should be bubbly and the meatballs should be heated through.

27Serve the meatballs hot, spooned over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

28Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl

Baking sheet

Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option. To make the meatballs ahead of time, prepare them according to the recipe and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Watch Video Of How Good Italian Meatball Recipe Works

This Good Italian Meatball Recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. It can be served with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as a main dish with a side of vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan and warm over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. This recipe is a great way to feed a crowd or to have quick and easy meals on hand throughout the week.

It’s a dish that everyone will love, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. The meatballs are also a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet, as you can add finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the mixture. This recipe is a classic that will be enjoyed by all.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Good Italian Meatball

1. Can I use only ground beef for the meatballs?

You can use only ground beef, but the combination of ground beef and ground pork provides a better texture and flavor. The pork adds moisture and richness to the meatballs. If you prefer to use only ground beef, you may need to adjust the seasoning slightly.

2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time. Prepare them according to the recipe and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is a great way to have meatballs ready for quick and easy meals.

3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried. If using fresh herbs, use about three times the amount called for in the recipe. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, use 3 teaspoons of fresh oregano. Fresh herbs will add a brighter flavor to the dish.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Brown the meatballs in a pan and then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the sauce ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld together and the meatballs to become very tender.

5. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs in the same amount. This will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the dish as well.

good italian meatball recipe

The Best good italian meatball recipe