Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic Italian Meatball Recipe! These tender, flavorful meatballs are simmered in rich tomato sauce, making them perfect for serving with spaghetti, crusty bread, or as a hearty appetizer. Easy to make and packed with authentic flavors, they’re sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Italian Meatballs
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork (or Italian sausage)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Italian Meatballs
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Roll the mixture into evenly-sized balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. This recipe should make 18-20 meatballs.
3. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until golden on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
In the same skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Simmer the Meatballs:
Add the browned meatballs to the simmering tomato sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfectly Tender Meatballs: The combination of beef, pork, and breadcrumbs soaked in milk ensures moist and tender meatballs.
- Rich, Homemade Sauce: Slow-simmered tomato sauce adds depth and authenticity.
- Customizable: You can tweak the seasoning or add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions for Italian Meatballs
- Toss with spaghetti or linguine for a classic dish.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread for dipping.
- Add to a sub roll with mozzarella cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich.
Pro Tips for Perfect Italian Meatballs
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and good-quality Parmesan make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the ingredients to keep the meatballs from becoming dense.
- Bake for Convenience: If you prefer, bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of browning them in a skillet.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
