Tired of the same old meatballs? Craving a delicious, juicy meatball without the usual breadcrumb filler? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe delivers incredibly flavorful and tender meatballs, completely skipping the breadcrumbs for a richer, more intense meaty taste. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Perfect for a quick dinner idea or a more elaborate homemade cooking project, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup finely 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 milk or heavy cream (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If using, add the milk or cream. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
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Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, gently roll the meat mixture into 1-inch to 1.5-inch meatballs. Try to make them relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
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Cook the Meatballs: You have several options for cooking:
- Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total, or until cooked through. This is great for a quick dinner.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. This method is perfect for larger batches.
- Simmering in Sauce: Brown the meatballs lightly in a skillet, then transfer them to a pot with your favorite sauce (marinara, tomato, etc.) and simmer until cooked through and the sauce has thickened. This is ideal for a complete meal.
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Serve and Enjoy! Serve your delicious, juicy, and flavorful meatballs immediately. They are fantastic on their own, over pasta, in a sub, or as part of a larger dish.
Tips for the Best Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients just until they are incorporated.
- Chill the meatball mixture: For firmer meatballs, cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes before shaping and cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the meatballs easier to handle.
- Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure your meatballs are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Italian Herb Meatballs: Increase the amount of oregano and basil, and add a teaspoon of thyme or rosemary.
- Cheesy Meatballs: Add some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese to the meat mixture for extra cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 6-8g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This recipe provides a fantastic base for countless delicious variations. Experiment, have fun, and enjoy your homemade, juicy, and flavorful meatballs! These are sure to become a family favorite, offering a healthy and delicious addition to your weekly meal planning. They're a simple yet impressive dish, perfect for any occasion.