Game day is almost here, and what better way to fuel your team spirit than with a mountain of delicious, homemade meatballs? Forget store-bought – this recipe is your ticket to touchdown-worthy taste, perfect for a crowd. These easy-to-make meatballs are incredibly flavorful, juicy, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, from seasoned foodies to picky eaters. Get ready for a Super Bowl feast that'll leave everyone wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Your favorite marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade – about 2-3 cups)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatballs cook through perfectly and develop a lovely golden-brown crust.
Mix the Magic:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs. Just until everything is evenly distributed.
Shape and Bake:
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Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. This step is easier if you lightly wet your hands. It prevents the meat from sticking. Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
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Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, browning them nicely adds to their delicious flavor.
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Pour your favorite marinara sauce over the meatballs in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
Serve these delectable meatballs with your favorite pasta, crusty bread for dipping, or even as a standalone appetizer.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a touch of heat.
- Cheese please: Stuff a small piece of mozzarella cheese into the center of each meatball before baking for an extra cheesy explosion.
- Herby delight: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage.
- Slow cooker magic: For a hands-off approach, brown the meatballs as instructed and then transfer them to a slow cooker with the marinara sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Make it a slider: Serve these meatballs on mini slider buns with your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on sauce and size)
- Protein: Approximately 10-15g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe offers a delicious and relatively healthy meal option, perfect for a game day gathering. Remember to adjust serving sizes and ingredients based on your guest list and preferences. Enjoy the game, and enjoy your amazing homemade meatballs!