Authentic Italian Meatballs
Experience the warmth of family with these tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. A cozy comfort food perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef Use grass-fed for a richer flavor.
- 1/2 lb ground pork Adds tenderness and a bit of sweetness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Opt for fresh or Italian-style for added flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese For that authentic Italian zing.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped A pop of freshness to balance the richness.
- 1 large egg Binds everything together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For depth and warmth in flavor.
- 1 tsp salt and pepper Essential for elevating your meatballs.
- 1/2 cup milk This keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes The foundation for your luscious sauce. Choose San Marzano for a sweet, rich base.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and pork. Gently mix with your hands until just combined.
- Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until evenly blended, but don’t overdo it.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs approximately the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they aren’t touching.
Cooking
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, in a large skillet, add crushed tomatoes, a pinch of salt, and remaining parsley. Allow it to simmer gently.
- Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer together for about 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop in the sauce.