There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of steaming meatballs served in a rich and savory sauce. These classic Meatballs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a main course, appetizer, or even added to sandwiches for a hearty meal. Whether you’re cooking up a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
**Meatballs**
**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 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (24 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Cooked spaghetti or crusty bread, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Meatballs:** In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until well combined.
2. **Shape the Meatballs:** Take a portion of the meat mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, making approximately 16-20 meatballs.
3. **Cook the Meatballs:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they are not crowded in the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
4. **Make the Sauce:** Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, stirring gently to combine. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes, ensuring they are fully cooked and infused with flavor.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the meatballs are ready, serve them hot over a bed of cooked spaghetti or with crusty bread on the side. Garnish with additional parsley or grated Parmesan if desired. These Meatballs are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal.
6. **Storage Tip:** If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before enjoying again.
7. **Variations:** Get creative with your Meatballs by adding different herbs and spices to the meat mixture, or try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also experiment with the sauce by incorporating diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
8. **Make-Ahead Tip:** To save time, you can prepare the meatball mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This is a great way to streamline the cooking process on busy days.
Meatballs are a classic dish that never goes out of style, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that is simple to prepare yet incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, these Meatballs are sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the delicious aroma wafting from your kitchen as you cook up this timeless favorite for yourself and your loved ones.
