Delish Italian Meatballs

Let me spill the beans about these Delish Italian Meatballs. They’re the kind of juicy, flavor-packed meaty goodness that makes your kitchen smell like heaven and turns every meal into a mini celebration. Seriously, these meatballs are easy to whip up and can turn even the dullest day around with their Italian charm!

This recipe has become my family’s ultimate comfort food. My husband claims he can smell these sizzling from a mile away and my kiddos are always sneaking a taste before I even get them to the table. I remember the first time I made them, I accidentally added twice the garlic (oops!) and it ended up being a happy little accident because let’s face it — more garlic means more love, right?

Why You’ll Love This Delish Italian Meatballs

Here’s why you’ll wanna put a ring on this recipe:
– They taste like a big old Italian hug from Nonna.
– Ridiculously satisfying and perfect for those hangry moments.
– They make your house smell like you’ve got a five-star chef hiding in the pantry.

How to Make It

Alright, grab your apron and let’s dive in. Start with your favorite tunes in the background (I always sing to my ladle). Now, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, an egg, and a party in your mouth of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan. Squish it all together with your hands — yes, it gets messy, but that’s half the fun!

Roll those babies into balls. Mine always end up a bit wonky, but that’s the charm, right? Get ‘em browning in a hot skillet, and when they’re all crusty and golden, let them take a little swim in some tomato sauce. Cook until they’re plump and have soaked up all that saucy goodness. Don’t forget to taste-test… frequently. Because, well, yum.

Ingredient Notes

– Ground Beef: Use whatever fat level you like, or feel brave with a beef-pork combo. Trust me, your taste buds will high five you.
– Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular, doesn’t matter. Once, I ran out and crushed a few crackers instead. Best last-minute hack ever.
– Parmesan Cheese: No, the stuff in the green can doesn’t count. Go for the real cheese, it’s a game-changer.

Recipe Steps:

1. Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan in a big bowl.
2. Shape mixture into balls, any size you like — I go for golf-ball size.
3. Brown meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until they’re golden all over.
4. Simmer in tomato sauce until cooked through and infused with saucy goodness.

What to Serve It With

Tips & Mistakes

– Don’t overthink the size, mine never match and turn out fab.
– Watch the skillet heat, or you’ll get charred lumps instead of a golden brown crust.

Storage Tips

Pop any leftovers (if you have any!) in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or eat straight from the fridge while you stand in the glow of the open door at midnight. It’s a judgement-free zone here!

Variations and Substitutions

Feel like experimenting? Switch out the beef for turkey or chicken. Add a fun twist with a splash of Worcestershire sauce if you’re feeling wild. I’ve even chucked in some chili flakes for extra oomph. And when I’m out of tomato sauce? I’ve leaned on jarred marinara. Still delicious. Cooking is all about making it work!

Frequently Asked Questions

Delish Italian Meatballs

Classic Italian meatballs simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for pasta or sandwiches.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 lb ground beef
• ▢ 0.5 cup breadcrumbs preferably Italian seasoned
• ▢ 0.75 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 1 large egg
• ▢ 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
• ▢ 2 cups tomato sauce homemade or store-bought
• ▢ 1 tsp salt
• ▢ 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
• Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5 minutes.
• Pour tomato sauce over the meatballs, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with pasta or on a sub roll.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Meatballs can be made ahead and frozen before cooking.