Meatballs are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether served with pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own as an appetizer, homemade meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe will guide you through the steps to make tender, flavorful meatballs from scratch.
Ingredients of Meatballs Recipe
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of ground beef, pork, and veal for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk or 2%)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or meat mix), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
2: Shape the Meatballs
- Form the Meatballs: Use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to shape the mixture into meatballs. Each meatball should be about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet or plate.
3: Cook the Meatballs
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Fry the Meatballs: Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches. Cook each meatball for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are browned all over. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the meatballs to steam instead of fry.
- Finish Cooking: If you plan to serve the meatballs with marinara sauce, you can add them to a pot of simmering sauce after browning and cook them for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will allow the meatballs to soak up the sauce and become even more flavorful.
4: Serve the Meatballs
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the meatballs over pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer with toothpicks. They also pair well with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
- Meat Mix: Using a mix of ground beef, pork, and veal adds richness and flavor to the meatballs.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Baking Option: For a healthier option, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Conclusion
Homemade meatballs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. With this simple recipe, you can create tender, flavorful meatballs that are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether served with pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own, these meatballs are a satisfying and comforting meal.
FAQs
Can I freeze meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze meatballs. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs in meatballs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even a slice of bread soaked in milk as a substitute.
How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?
To prevent meatballs from falling apart, make sure to use a binder like egg and breadcrumbs. Also, be sure not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can make them too loose.
Can I use only one type of meat for meatballs?
Yes, you can use just ground beef, pork, or turkey if you prefer. The flavor and texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
Enjoy your homemade meatballs!