Few dishes evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia quite like meatballs. Whether served atop a steaming plate of spaghetti or nestled in a warm, hearty soup, meatballs are a beloved classic that never fail to satisfy. In this recipe, we’re going to show you how to make the perfect meatballs that are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until well combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
2. Once the ingredients are evenly mixed, form the mixture into meatballs of your desired size. A golf ball-sized meatball is a good starting point. Roll each meatball between your palms to form a smooth, round shape.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
4. Cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. You can cover the skillet with a lid to help the meatballs cook through more evenly.
5. To check if the meatballs are cooked through, you can cut one in half to ensure there is no pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
6. Once the meatballs are fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatballs moist and flavorful.
7. Serve the meatballs hot with your favorite sauce or accompaniment. They are delicious on their own, with marinara sauce and spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or even as a topping for pizza.
8. If you have leftover meatballs, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
These homemade meatballs are a versatile and comforting dish that will surely become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal at home, these meatballs are sure to please. Enjoy making and savoring these delicious morsels of goodness!
