Italian Meatballs
These classic Italian meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with savory flavor. Made with simple ingredients and gentle technique, they’re perfect for simmering in sauce, serving over pasta, or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients
For the Italian Meatballs
- 1 lb ground meat beef, pork, or a blend
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or torn bread
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
Optional (for simmering)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 1–2 minutes until softened.
- In a large mixing bowl, add soaked breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Gently mix in the ground meat until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 6–8 minutes total.
- Optional: Add marinara sauce and simmer for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Serve hot with pasta, bread, or as desired.
Notes
- For extra tender meatballs, use a mix of beef and pork.
- Avoid compacting the meatballs too tightly.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds more flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 22gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 620mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
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