How to Make Italian Meatballs for Dinner
Italian meatballs are a hearty and delicious addition to any dinner table. Whether served with spaghetti, in a sub, or on their own, these savory treats are sure to please a crowd. Follow this simple guide on how to make Italian meatballs for dinner.
Ingredients for Italian Meatballs
To make flavorful Italian meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 jar marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
Steps to Make Italian Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and egg. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Once the mixture is ready, take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture has been used. You should have around 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size you choose.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
You can cook the meatballs in two ways: baking or frying.
- To bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- To fry: Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the hot skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure they’re not overcrowded in the pan — work in batches if needed.
Step 4: Simmer in Marinara Sauce
If you prefer saucy meatballs, transfer the cooked meatballs to a pot and cover them with marinara sauce. Simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Italian meatballs over spaghetti for a classic meal, or place them in a sub roll with melted cheese for a meatball sandwich. They can also be enjoyed as an appetizer. Garnish with extra parsley or grated Parmesan for added flavor and presentation.
Tips for the Best Italian Meatballs
- For added moisture, you can incorporate a splash of milk into the meat mixture.
- Experiment with different herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes.
Making Italian meatballs is an easy yet rewarding process that can elevate your dinner experience. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that is full of flavor and sure to impress!