Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe recreates the magic of Antonia Lofaso’s famous meatballs, delivering juicy, tender perfection every time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delicious dishes!
Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor
This recipe yields approximately 24 meatballs. Adjust quantities as needed.
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Sauce (optional):
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Culinary Magic
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. This is a crucial step for easy cleanup!
Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Shape the meatballs: Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
Bake or pan-fry: You have two excellent options here. For baking, arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. For pan-frying, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Make the sauce (optional): While the meatballs are baking or frying, prepare the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and basil, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper to taste, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor.
Combine (optional): Once the meatballs are cooked, you can add them to the simmering sauce for the last 10 minutes of cooking time to allow them to absorb the delicious flavors.
Tips and Variations for Delicious Dishes
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops gluten and can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your meatballs will be directly impacted by the quality of your meat and other ingredients.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a little bit of grated lemon zest can add extra depth of flavor.
- Serve it your way: These meatballs are delicious served with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even on their own. They also make a great addition to subs or salads.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of your favorite vegetables for a balanced and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate)
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: 7-8g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
These are just estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This recipe is a wonderful example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking with this easy recipe and elevate your dinner table with these juicy and flavorful meatballs! They are sure to become a family favorite.