Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These juicy, flavorful meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe, inspired by classic Italian flavors, offers a simple yet satisfying approach to homemade cooking, delivering on taste and convenience. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you'll find this recipe both accessible and rewarding. Get ready to enjoy the best meatballs you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 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
- Your favorite marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Form and Bake the Meatballs:
- Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. This is easier if you use slightly wet hands.
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and browned. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Simmer in Sauce (Optional):
- For extra flavor and a richer sauce, gently simmer the cooked meatballs in your favorite marinara sauce for 10-15 minutes. This step is perfect for making a hearty meatball pasta dish!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious meatballs on their own, over spaghetti or other pasta, in a sub sandwich, or alongside crusty bread for dipping. They're incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion.
Cooking Tips:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in tough meatballs. Mix gently until just combined.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatballs are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
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.
- Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Create a small indentation in each meatball before baking and fill it with a small piece of mozzarella or provolone cheese.
- Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Fat: Approximately 7-9 grams
This recipe is a simple example, and nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Enjoy these flavorful and easy-to-make meatballs! They're a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Let me know in the comments how your meatballs turned out! Happy cooking!