Homemade meatballs are a classic dish that can elevate any meal. Tender, flavorful, and versatile, they’re perfect served with spaghetti, in a marinara sauce, or even as a party snack. This recipe is easy to customize, making it a must-have for your repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or skillet
- Oven (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Preheat the oven (if baking):
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix the ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, milk, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the meatballs:
- Scoop about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the rest of the mixture, placing the meatballs on the baking sheet or a plate if pan-frying.
- Cook the meatballs:
- To bake: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- To pan-fry: Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning frequently, for 8–10 minutes until evenly browned and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta, in a sub roll with melted cheese, or on their own as an appetizer.
Tips
- Use a mix of meats: A combination of ground beef, pork, and/or veal creates more flavorful and tender meatballs.
- Keep them moist: Don’t skip the milk or breadcrumbs—they help keep the meatballs soft and juicy.
- Make ahead: Prepare the meatballs and freeze them raw or cooked for quick meals.
This meatball recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Perfect for any occasion, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you pair them with pasta or enjoy them on their own, they’ll always hit the spot. Try them today!
Meatballs Recipe
These juicy and flavorful homemade meatballs are perfect for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer. Easy to make and packed with seasonings, they’ll be your new go-to recipe!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or skillet
- Oven (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven (if baking):
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix the ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, milk, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the meatballs:
- Scoop about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the rest of the mixture, placing the meatballs on the baking sheet or a plate if pan-frying.
- Cook the meatballs:
- To bake: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- To pan-fry: Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning frequently, for 8–10 minutes until evenly browned and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta, in a sub roll with melted cheese, or on their own as an appetizer.
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