Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Then look no further! This recipe for melt-in-your-mouth meatballs is your answer. These aren't your average, dry meatballs; we're talking juicy, tender perfection, bursting with flavor and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these meatballs are a true crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb 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
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
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Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, gently form the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them as uniform in size as possible for even cooking.
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Brown the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. This step adds incredible flavor.
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Simmer for Tenderness: Once browned, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your melt-in-your-mouth meatballs immediately. They are delicious on their own, or you can serve them with your favorite pasta sauce, over spaghetti, with a side of mashed potatoes, or even in a hearty soup.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture will result in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures that your meatballs are cooked through and safe to eat.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the meatballs enough space to brown properly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Let them rest: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender meatballs.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Italian-Herb Meatballs: Substitute the oregano and basil with a blend of Italian herbs.
- Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Create a small well in the center of each meatball before shaping and add a small piece of mozzarella or provolone cheese.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 7-9g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
This easy recipe for melt-in-your-mouth meatballs is a delicious and healthy meal option perfect for busy weeknights. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced cooks. Enjoy!