Print

Italian Meatballs: 5 Steps to Authentic Flavor

Italian Meatballs

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Rich and savory Italian Meatballs simmered in homemade marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • 1 lb cooked spaghetti
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine beef and pork with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, onion, milk, egg, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Shape mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs using a scoop or oiled hands. Place on a parchment-lined sheet.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake meatballs for 18–20 minutes OR pan-fry in batches in a hot skillet until browned on all sides.
  4. For sauce, heat olive oil in a skillet or saucepan. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
  5. Add browned meatballs to sauce. Simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes to finish cooking and infuse flavor.
  6. Serve meatballs hot over spaghetti, with extra sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Adjust seasoning to your taste.
  • Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
  • Meatballs can be frozen for later use.

Nutrition