real italian meatball recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best real italian meatball recipe

I have always been fascinated by the rich flavors and textures of traditional Italian cuisine, and one dish that has never failed to impress me is the real Italian meatball recipe. As a busy mom, I’ve had the pleasure of serving this recipe to my family countless times, and it never fails to bring a smile to their faces.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, watching the mixture come together as we shape and cook the meatballs, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) The combination of tender beef, flavorful breadcrumbs, and aromatic herbs is a perfect blend that makes this dish a staple in our household.

Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this real Italian meatball recipe is always a hit with my family. But it’s not just about taste – this recipe has also become a staple in our home because of its simplicity and versatility.

It’s easy to scale up or down depending on your needs, and you can serve it with a variety of sides to suit your mood. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious reheated for the next day’s lunch or dinner.

I’ve even served this recipe at family gatherings and potlucks, where it’s always been met with rave reviews. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – using lean beef and fresh herbs makes this dish a relatively guilt-free option for those looking to indulge in a hearty meal without feeling too bad about it.

In short, this real Italian meatball recipe is a game-changer for any home cook looking to add some excitement to their meal routine.

Real Italian Meatballs

4.7 from 1334 votes

These authentic Italian meatballs are tender, flavorful, and slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for serving with pasta or on their own.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

500g ground beef
150g ground pork
1 small onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 egg
3 tbsp breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

For the Sauce

1 can (800g) crushed tomatoes
1 small onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 bay leaf

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4Be careful not to overmix.
5Form the meat mixture into meatballs about 1.
5 inches in diameter.
6Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching.
7Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
8While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.
9In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
10Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
11Add crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaf.
12Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
13Once the meatballs are done, carefully place them into the simmering sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged.
14Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
15Stir gently occasionally to prevent sticking.
16Cook until the sauce has thickened slightly and the meatballs are tender and bursting with flavor.
17Remove the bay leaf from the sauce.
18Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
19Serve the meatballs hot, spooned over your favorite pasta or on their own, with the rich tomato sauce.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Skillet
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 90mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a lighter option, you can use ground turkey instead of beef and pork. Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.

Watch Video Of How Real Italian Meatballs Works

This real Italian meatball recipe is more than just a delicious meal – it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it with pasta, rice, or even on its own as an appetizer or snack. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to suit your tastes.

Want more spice? Add some red pepper flakes! Prefer less garlic?

Use only half of what’s called for! The possibilities are endless. And let’s not forget about storage – these meatballs freeze beautifully and can be reheated whenever you need them.

Whether you’re planning a party or just need something quick and easy for dinner tonight, this real Italian meatball recipe has got you covered.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Real Italian Meatballs

Q: What type of meat is best suited for making meatballs?

For this real Italian meatball recipe, I recommend using lean beef as it provides the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Q: Can I use ground pork or turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute beef with ground pork or turkey if you prefer.

Q: How do I prevent my meatballs from breaking apart while cooking?

To prevent your meatballs from breaking apart while cooking, make sure not to overmix the mixture when shaping them.

Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer?

You can shape the meatballs ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Q: What is the secret ingredient that makes these meatballs so flavorful?

The secret ingredient in this recipe is actually quite simple – it’s all about using high-quality ingredients like fresh herbs and breadcrumbs that add depth and complexity to each bite.

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