There’s something undeniably comforting about tucking into a plate of perfectly cooked Italian meatballs. Whether you serve them atop spaghetti or nestled in a warm sub sandwich, these savory delights are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The beauty of Italian meatballs lies in their versatility – they can be enjoyed as a main course, appetizer, or even as a snack on their own. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make juicy, flavorful Italian meatballs that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.
Italian Meatballs
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and milk. Using clean hands, gently mix the ingredients until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.
3. Shape the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them out evenly to allow for even cooking.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
5. If you prefer, you can also cook the meatballs on the stovetop. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.
6. Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them hot with your favorite marinara sauce, pasta, or on a sub sandwich. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
7. Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply microwave or warm them in a sauce on the stovetop.
Italian meatballs are a classic dish that never fails to please a crowd. With this simple and delicious recipe, you can easily whip up a batch of homemade meatballs that are far superior to anything you can find frozen at the store. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and serve them in your favorite style – the options are endless! So next time you’re craving a comforting and hearty meal, give these Italian meatballs a try and enjoy the warm, flavorful goodness they bring to your table.
