Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Meatball recipe is a winner for weeknight dinners or special occasions. These juicy meatballs, bursting with Italian herbs and spices, are perfect served with your favorite pasta, alongside a vibrant marinara sauce, or even nestled in a crusty bread bowl. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece – it's a surefire way to bring everyone together around the table. This recipe provides easy recipes even beginner cooks can master, creating delicious dishes without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!), casings removed
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the Italian sausage, ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, 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.
Brown the meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds fantastic flavor and texture.
Bake to perfection: Transfer the browned meatballs to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve and enjoy!: Serve these delicious meatballs immediately with your favorite pasta sauce and pasta. They're also fantastic in subs, over polenta, or simply enjoyed on their own.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
- Make it cheesy: Stuff a small piece of mozzarella cheese into the center of each meatball before baking for an extra cheesy treat.
- Slow cooker option: For a hands-off approach, brown the meatballs as directed, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until cooked through.
- Freezing for later: Cooked meatballs can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 7-9g
This Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Meatball recipe is a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. It's also a fantastic healthy meal option when compared to many takeout alternatives. These easy recipes are perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, offering a delicious and satisfying homemade cooking experience. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly fits the bill. Enjoy!