Italian Meatballs Recipe
While meatballs are often associated with Italian cuisine, their origins are a bit more complex. In Italy, "polpette" (meatballs) are usually served as a standalone dish and not paired with pasta as they are in the United States. Italian immigrants in America adapted their traditional meatball recipes, creating the now-iconic spaghetti and meatballs dish we all know and love.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or large skillet
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball MixtureIn a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper.Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense.
- Shape the MeatballsScoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.Place the meatballs on a plate or baking sheet.
- Cook the MeatballsOption 1: BakingPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Arrange the meatballs on a lightly greased baking sheet.Bake for 18-20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
- Option 2: Pan-FryingHeat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the SauceIn a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar (if using), basil, and chili flakes.Season with salt and pepper, then let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Combine and ServeAdd the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.Serve hot over spaghetti, with crusty bread, or enjoy as is with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.