Are you ready to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of New Jersey? Today, we're recreating a family favorite – Teresa Giudice's legendary meatballs! These aren't your average meatballs; they're bursting with flavor, incredibly juicy, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe is a delicious example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy and satisfying meal the whole family will adore. Get ready to experience the magic of Teresa's kitchen! This is one of the best recipes you'll find for truly delicious meatballs.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Olive oil for browning
Instructions:
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Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, basil, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
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Shape the meatballs: Using your hands, roll the meat mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs. Aim for consistent size for even cooking.
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Brown the meatballs: Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. This step adds incredible flavor and a beautiful crust.
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Simmer the meatballs (optional): For extra tender meatballs, transfer the browned meatballs to a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add a jar of your favorite marinara sauce, cover, and simmer on low for 2-3 hours, or until cooked through and tender. Alternatively, you can simmer them directly in the skillet, covered, for about 30 minutes.
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Serve and enjoy! Serve your delicious meatballs over pasta, alongside polenta, or in a hearty sub sandwich. This quick dinner idea is perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops gluten in the meat, resulting in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients just until they are incorporated.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs, spices, and red pepper flakes to your preference.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like onions, carrots, or zucchini into the meatball mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone.
- Make them mini: For appetizers, roll the meat mixture into smaller meatballs.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your meatballs and the specific ingredients used. However, a reasonable estimate per meatball is approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
Enjoy these incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make meatballs! They’re a true testament to the deliciousness of homemade cooking and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. This is one of the best recipes for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a taste of authentic Italian-American cuisine.