Title: Juicy Italian Meatballs Recipe (Classic, Homemade & Full of Flavor)
Make the best homemade Italian meatballs with this easy, authentic recipe. Juicy, tender, and simmered in rich tomato sauce—perfect for pasta, subs, or meal prep.
Authentic Italian Meatballs Recipe (Tender & Flavorful)
There's nothing like a plate of homemade Italian meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce. This classic recipe uses a blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs to create juicy, flavorful meatballs that melt in your mouth.
Whether you're serving them over spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or with crusty bread, this recipe is a true Italian comfort food favorite.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a beef/pork mix)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 large egg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1–2 tbsp milk (to moisten the mixture)
For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, herbs, egg, salt, pepper, and milk.
- Mix gently with your hands—don’t overmix.
- Form into 1–1.5 inch balls and place on a plate.
2. Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown meatballs on all sides (about 5–7 minutes total). They don’t need to be fully cooked inside yet.
3. Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and seasonings. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Simmer Together:
- Add the meatballs back to the skillet, spoon sauce over them.
- Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes until meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
5. Serve Hot:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Serve over spaghetti, in subs, or with roasted veggies.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Authentic flavors with simple ingredients
- Juicy and tender meatballs every time
- Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep
- Ready in under 1 hour
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic spaghetti and meatballs
- Meatball sub sandwiches
- On top of creamy polenta
- With garlic bread and salad
FAQs:
Q: Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, then simmer in the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely. Freeze meatballs (with or without sauce) in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
A: Yes, just reduce cooking time slightly and add extra moisture (olive oil or more milk).
Final Thoughts:
This classic Italian meatballs recipe is a timeless family favorite. Easy to make, full of rich flavor, and so versatile—you’ll want to make a double batch every time!
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