Classic Meatballs Recipe

Classic Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For Frying:

• Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying

For Serving:

• Your favorite marinara sauce
• Cooked spaghetti or other pasta (if desired)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon.
2. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and milk to the meat mixture. Mix until just combined.
3. Add the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and chopped fresh parsley to the mixture. Mix until evenly distributed.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

2. Form the Meatballs:

1. Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or large plate.

3. Cook the Meatballs:

1. Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and drain them on paper towels.

4. Serve the Meatballs:

1. If serving with marinara sauce, heat the sauce in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
3. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley.
4. If serving as an appetizer, place the meatballs on a serving platter with toothpicks and a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips:

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
• The meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, place the meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container.

Enjoy your delicious homemade meatballs!