Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe, inspired by the culinary queen Giada De Laurentiis herself, delivers juicy, tender meatballs bursting with fresh Italian herbs and simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these meatballs are sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delicious homemade dish! This recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy meals and easy recipes can coexist beautifully.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound 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 salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started with the meatballs:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Once combined, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This step develops a beautiful crust and adds depth of flavor. Set aside.
Now for the delicious sauce:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, and sugar. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a richer flavor.
- Add the browned meatballs to the sauce. Gently stir to coat them evenly. Cover and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serving Suggestions & Tips for Success:
Serve these delicious meatballs over your favorite pasta, alongside a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. A simple green salad completes this delightful meal perfectly.
- Tip 1: For extra flavor, soak the breadcrumbs in a little milk for 10 minutes before adding them to the meatball mixture.
- Tip 2: Don't overwork the meatball mixture. Gentle handling ensures tender meatballs.
- Tip 3: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, or even a touch of fennel seeds would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian Meatballs: Use a mixture of lentils, vegetables, and breadcrumbs to create hearty vegetarian meatballs.
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture or the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. These quick dinner ideas are always a winner! Enjoy!