Are you looking for a delicious and easy meatball recipe that doesn't require eggs? Look no further! This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful meatballs perfect for pasta night, appetizers, or even a hearty soup. Forget everything you think you know about dry, crumbly meatballs – this recipe guarantees tender, satisfying results, even without the egg binder. It's a simple, healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights, making it a fantastic addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
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 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 touch of heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk or water
Instructions:
Get started: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and ground pork. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Add the dry ingredients: Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the bowl.
Moisten the mixture: Gradually incorporate the milk or water, mixing gently until just combined. The mixture should be moist but not soggy. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs, so be gentle!
Shape the meatballs: Using your hands, roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them uniform in size for even cooking.
Cook the meatballs: You have a few options here:
- Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- 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 medium-low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. This method adds lovely browning and extra flavor.
- Simmering in sauce: Brown the meatballs in a skillet as above, then add your favorite pasta sauce and simmer until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
Serve and enjoy: Serve your delicious, egg-free meatballs over pasta, alongside mashed potatoes, or as part of a hearty soup. They're also great on their own as an appetizer!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Gentle handling is key to tender meatballs.
- Use good quality ground meat: The flavor of your meatballs will depend heavily on the quality of the meat you use.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices.
- Check for doneness: Make sure the meatballs are cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Variations:
- Add cheese: Incorporate shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese into the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage.
- Make them spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Substitute the meat: Try using ground turkey or a combination of ground beef and chicken for a leaner meatball.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your meatballs and the specific ingredients used. For a general idea, one meatball will likely contain around 100-150 calories, 7-10g of fat, and 10-15g of protein. This recipe offers a satisfying and relatively healthy meal option, a great example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined. This is a great addition to your homemade cooking repertoire! These delicious dishes are perfect for any occasion.
This no-egg meatball recipe is a winner – easy to follow, incredibly flavorful, and adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy experimenting and creating your perfect meatball masterpiece! It's one of the best recipes you'll find for a simple, satisfying meal.