Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Spicy Italian Meatball recipe is your answer. These meatballs pack a flavorful punch, combining the classic Italian flavors with a delightful kick of spice that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious homemade meal without the fuss. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this amazing recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste!)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Your favorite pasta sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, gently roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
Step 3: 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. This step adds incredible depth of flavor.
Step 4: Simmer in Sauce
Once browned, add your favorite pasta sauce to the skillet, ensuring the meatballs are mostly submerged. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your spicy Italian meatballs over your favorite pasta, alongside a side salad, or simply enjoy them on their own. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an extra touch of elegance.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add more!
- Make it ahead: These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the sauce before serving.
Variations:
- Add cheese inside: Incorporate small pieces of mozzarella or provolone cheese into the meatball mixture for an extra cheesy surprise.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other Italian herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meatball mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Spicy Italian Meatball recipe is a fantastic addition to your easy recipes collection. It’s a delicious and healthy meal option perfect for busy weeknights, and versatile enough for a more elaborate dinner party. Enjoy the process of creating this flavorful dish and savor every bite!