Okay, friends, let’s talk meatballs. Not just any meatballs, though. We’re talking about the kind of melt-in-your-mouth, deeply flavorful, family-dinner-staple kind of meatballs. These Italian meatball recipes.Are meatballs a game changer? These are packed with flavor, incredibly tender, and surprisingly easy to make. I’d even put them up against my grandma’s famous gravy recipe, and that’s saying something! My kids beg me for these at least once a week, and honestly, I’m happy to oblige. What is comfort food at its best?
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
What are some of the best Italian meatball recipes?
What are these magical things?Italian meatball recipes., exactly? Think of them as little flavor bombs, simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce. They are, essentially, a blend of ground meat (usually a mix of beef, pork, and sometimes veal), breadcrumbs, eggs, cheese (Parmesan is a must!), herbs, and spices, all rolled into small balls and cooked to perfection. The beauty of this recipe, though, is in its simplicity. It’s not fussy or complicated. It’s just good, honest comfort food that everyone loves. The perfect blend of ingredients creates a tender texture and incredible flavor you won’t be able to resist.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start?Italian meatball recipes. is a total winner for so many reasons. First, the flavor is out of this world. The combination of meats, cheese, and herbs creates a truly unforgettable taste. The meatballs are savory, slightly sweet, and perfectly seasoned. It’s the kind of flavor that just makes you feel good from the inside out. Second, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Seriously! Once you get the hang of rolling the meatballs, the rest is a breeze. I’ve taught countless friends how to make these, and they’re always amazed at how simple it is. Third, it’s incredibly cost-effective. Ground meat is generally pretty affordable, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. And finally, it’s so versatile! You can serve these meatballs over pasta, in sandwiches, as an appetizer… the possibilities are endless! What I love most about this recipe is that it’s a true family favorite. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the table, and that’s something really special. Compared to other meatball recipes, this one really shines because it’s not too dry and the flavor really permeates every bite. I really love how easy it is to customize too.
How do I make Italian meatballs?
Quick Overview
Making these incredible things.Italian meatball recipes. is easier than you might think! Essentially, you’ll mix all the ingredients together, form the mixture into meatballs, and then simmer them in your favorite tomato sauce. The simmering process is key to creating that tender, juicy texture. The best part? You can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd, or freeze some for later. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal, and that’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs: What
* 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor)
* 1/2 pound ground pork (adds a beautiful richness)
* 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs (I prefer seasoned for extra flavor, but plain works too)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is always best)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (flat-leaf or curly), whichever you prefer.
* 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
* 2 cloves garlic (minced)
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup milk (or ricotta cheese) – trust me on this one!
For the Sauce:
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion (chopped)
* 2 cloves garlic (minced)
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
* Salt and pepper to taste
How do I follow step
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. How do you mix crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce? Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. For deeper flavor. Where does magic happen? The longer it simmers, the richer and more delicious the sauce will be.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine Ground Beef, ground pork, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and salt. Set aside. Parsley, eggs, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and milk (or ricotta). Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix meatballs as this can make them tough. I find that using my hands is the best way to get everything properly incorporated without overdoing.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Roll the meat mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter. I like to use a small Ice Cream scoop to ensure that all the meatballs are the same size. How do you cook meat evenly? Wet your hands slightly with water to prevent the meat from sticking. If the mixture is too wet, add a little breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Brown the Meatballs (Optional)
This step is optional, but I highly recommend it. Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce adds a beautiful depth of flavor and helps them hold their shape. Heat a tablespoon or two of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and cook until browned on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this point, you just want to get a nice sear on them.
Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce
Gently add the browned meatballs to the simmering sauce. Make sure they are mostly submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for even more tender meatballs. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure that the meatballs are cooking evenly. I always do this when I have time in the afternoon, the smell makes my whole house feel like a big house. Italian grandma hug.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve meatballs and sauce over pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni are all great). Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Can you serve them as an appetizer on crusty rolls?
What to Serve It With
These delicious Italian meatball recipes pair perfectly with so many things! For a classic Italian dinner, serve them over spaghetti with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the meatballs. If you’re serving them as an appetizer, try offering them with crusty bread for dipping in the sauce. For a cozy, comforting meal, serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or polenta. And don’t forget the wine! A light-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, is a perfect complement to the flavors of the meatballs and sauce. My family loves when I pair them with a big loaf of Garlic Bread.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Italian Meatball Recipes
Want to make sure your Italian meatball recipes are absolutely perfect? Here are a few of my top tips:
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
- Use a combination of meats: Using a blend of ground beef and ground pork adds a beautiful depth of flavor. You can also add a little ground veal for an even richer taste.
- Add breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help to bind the meatballs together and keep them tender. I prefer Italian breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
- Don’t skip the Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory flavor that is essential to authentic Italian meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs (optional): Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce adds a beautiful depth of flavor and helps them hold their shape.
- Simmer the meatballs in sauce: Simmering the meatballs in sauce for at least an hour (or longer) is key to creating that tender, juicy texture.
- Adjust the seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, oregano, or other seasonings to suit your taste.
- Add a touch of sugar to the sauce: A pinch of sugar can help to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature meatball recipe. My sister likes to add a little bit of red wine to the sauce, and it’s always a huge hit!
- Make a big batch and freeze them: Meatballs freeze beautifully, so make a big batch and freeze some for later. That way, you’ll always have a delicious and easy meal on hand. They store great uncooked if you are doing meal prep for the week too.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Italian meatball recipes are even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch! To store leftover meatballs, let them cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat the meatballs, simply place them in a pot of simmering sauce and cook until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as tender. I’ve always found that a low and slow simmer in the sauce is the best way to maintain their flavor and texture. If frozen, let thaw completely before reheating. I prefer to reheat the sauce separate from the meatballs to keep them from getting too soggy as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can find gluten-free breadcrumbs at most grocery stores, or you can make your own by grinding up gluten-free bread in a food processor. Just be sure to check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure that they are gluten-free. A 1:1 substitute is often the best way to go when baking these as well.Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork?Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. However, keep in mind that ground turkey and chicken tend to be drier than ground beef and pork, so you may need to add a little extra milk or ricotta cheese to the meatball mixture to keep them tender. I’ve found that using dark meat turkey helps with that.Can I bake the meatballs instead of simmering them in sauce?Yes, you can bake the meatballs instead of simmering them in sauce. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Then, add them to the simmering sauce and cook for another 15-20 minutes. It is a great shortcut but doesn’t taste as good.Can I add vegetables to the meatballs?Absolutely! Adding finely chopped vegetables to the meatballs is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients and flavor. Some good options include onions, carrots, zucchini, and spinach. Just be sure to chop the vegetables very finely so they don’t affect the texture of the meatballs.What kind of tomato sauce should I use?You can use any kind of tomato sauce you like! I personally prefer to use a combination of crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, but you can also use marinara sauce, tomato puree, or even a jarred pasta sauce. The choice is yours! My secret is adding a little bit of tomato paste to really deepen the flavor.Final Thoughts
These Italian meatball recipes are a true labor of love, but the results are so worth it! From the rich, savory flavor to the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. And with so many ways to serve them, you’ll never get bored! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other Italian-inspired dishes. I’m always experimenting and creating new recipes to share with you. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start cooking! Happy cooking, and can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how you liked the recipe. And if you make any variations, be sure to share them with me, I’m always looking for new ideas!
Delicious Italian-Style Eggplant Parmesan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds eggplant sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 cup flour for dredging
- 3 large eggs beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs Italian seasoned
- 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 3 cups marinara sauce homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup olive oil for frying
- 0.5 teaspoon salt to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 0.25 cup basil leaves fresh, chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with paper towels.
- Sprinkle sliced eggplant with salt and let rest for 20 minutes, then rinse and pat dry to remove excess moisture and bitterness.2 pounds eggplant
- Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat in breadcrumbs.2 pounds eggplant
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant slices until golden brown on each side. Drain on paper towels.2 pounds eggplant
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Assemble eggplant slices in a single layer. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.2 pounds eggplant
- Repeat layers until all eggplant, sauce, and cheese have been used. Finish with a layer of cheese on top.2 pounds eggplant
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.2 pounds eggplant
