Meat Balls

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Meatballs are a timeless comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a hearty addition to pasta, sandwiches, or even as an appetizer.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if pan-frying)

For the Sauce (Optional):

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Instructions

    1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

    1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, milk, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and parsley.
    2. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.

    2. Shape the Meatballs

    1. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
    2. Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

    3. Cook the Meatballs

    Option 1: Baking

    • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Place the meatballs on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.

    Option 2: Pan-Frying

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).

    4. Prepare the Sauce (Optional)

    1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
    2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds.
    3. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
    4. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for another 5 minutes.

    5. Serve and Enjoy

    Serve the meatballs over pasta, in a sub roll with melted cheese, or on their own with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil.

  • Tips for the Best Meatballs

    • Use a meat mixture: A blend of beef and pork gives the best texture and flavor.
    • Don’t overwork the meat: Gently mix to keep them tender.
    • Sear for extra flavor: Browning them in a skillet before baking adds a rich, caramelized taste.

    Enjoy your delicious homemade meatballs! 🍝😋

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