Description
Classic Italian meatballs are a comforting and delicious dish that captures the essence of traditional Italian cuisine. Made with a savory blend of lean ground beef, fresh herbs, and spices, these meatballs are not only tender and juicy but also boast rich flavors that will transport you straight to Italy. Perfect for serving over al dente spaghetti with marinara sauce or nestled in a toasted sub roll, they offer versatility for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe ensures that anyone can recreate this beloved classic at home. Enjoy these satisfying meatballs as part of your next meal and watch as they become an instant favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (fresh or dried)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 28 oz canned tomatoes (whole or crushed)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Oregano
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Roll mixture into balls (about 2 tablespoons each) and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent. Add canned tomatoes and oregano; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add baked meatballs to the sauce; let simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: - For added richness, consider mixing ground pork with beef. - Chill shaped meatballs for at least 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape. - Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for varied flavors.