italian pork meatballs recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
italian pork meatballs recipe
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The Best italian pork meatballs recipe

I’m so excited to share this Italian pork meatballs recipe with you. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for hearty and comforting meals that my family will love. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish to serve at a family gathering, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to make, delicious, and packed with nutrients from the pork and herbs. Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep or for when you need a convenient meal on the go.

In fact, my kids love helping me make these meatballs in the kitchen, and they’re always eager to try new variations and flavor combinations. That’s why I’m sharing this recipe with you today – I want to spread the joy of cooking and sharing meals with your loved ones. So grab your apron and let’s get started!

This recipe is inspired by traditional Italian cuisine, where meatballs are often made with beef or pork and served as an appetizer or side dish. The key to making great meatballs is to use high-quality ingredients and not overmix the mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs that fall apart when cooked.

To avoid this, mix the ingredients just until they come together in a ball, then stop mixing and proceed with shaping the meatballs. The result is tender and flavorful meatballs that will please even the pickiest eaters in your household.

Italian Pork Meatballs

Italian Pork Meatballs

4.8 from 1036 votes

Juicy and flavorful pork meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. These meatballs are perfect served over pasta or on their own as a hearty appetizer.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
4Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
5Roll the mixture into 1.
5-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and bake for 15 minutes, until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
7A meat thermometer inserted into the center should read 160°F.
8While the meatballs bake, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
9Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
10Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
11Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and sugar.
12Season with salt and black pepper.
13Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.
14Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
15Add the baked meatballs to the sauce, turning them gently to coat.
16Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
17Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked pasta or as desired.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For lighter meatballs, substitute half the pork with ground turkey. To make ahead, prepare the meatballs and sauce separately, then combine and reheat gently before serving.

Watch Video Of How Italian Pork Meatballs Works

These Italian pork meatballs are perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a special family gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.

They’re easy to make, packed with nutrients, and freeze beautifully for future meals.

One of my favorite ways to serve these meatballs is in marinara sauce with some crusty bread on the side – it’s an easy and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Pork Meatballs

What type of pork should I use for this recipe?

Ground pork is the best option for this recipe as it has the right texture and flavor to hold together well when cooked. You can also use leaner ground pork if you prefer a healthier option.

Can I use beef instead of pork?

Yes, you can use beef instead of pork, but keep in mind that beef will give your meatballs a slightly different flavor profile than pork would.

How do I prevent my meatballs from becoming too dense?

To prevent your meatballs from becoming too dense, make sure not to overmix the mixture when combining all the ingredients together.

What is the ideal size for meatballs?

Meatballs should be about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter to ensure they cook evenly.

Can I bake or grill these meatballs?

Yes, you can bake or grill these meatballs if you prefer a crisper exterior than what you get from pan-frying.

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