Introduction
Meatballs are a classic comfort food that many of us grew up enjoying. Whether served over pasta, on a sandwich, or simply on their own, they’re incredibly versatile and packed with flavor. This recipe for the Best Meatballs combines ground meat with savory herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a few secret ingredients that make them juicy, tender, and absolutely delicious. These meatballs are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even party appetizers.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for serving)
Preparing the Dish
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
- Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, fresh parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk, then pour this mixture into the meat and breadcrumb mix.
Step 2: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
- Using clean hands, gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Once the mixture is evenly combined, form it into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter).
Step 3: Fry the Meatballs
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the meatballs for about 3-4 minutes on each side, turning them carefully to brown all sides. They don’t need to be cooked all the way through at this point, as they will finish cooking in the sauce.
Step 4: Simmer in Marinara Sauce
- Once all the meatballs are browned, transfer them to a pot or deep skillet with marinara sauce.
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce over low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
Step 5: Serve the Meatballs
- These meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them over your favorite pasta, in a sub sandwich, or enjoy them as an appetizer with toothpicks.
- Top with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish.
Tips for the Best Meatballs
Use a Combination of Meats
Using a mix of ground beef and ground pork gives the meatballs a richer flavor and a more tender texture. You can also substitute ground veal or turkey depending on your preference.
Keep the Meatballs Juicy
Adding milk and breadcrumbs to the meat mixture helps keep the meatballs moist and prevents them from drying out as they cook.
Don’t Overmix
Overmixing the meat mixture can make the meatballs dense and tough. Mix the ingredients just until they’re combined to ensure the meatballs stay light and tender.
Variations on the Recipe
Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs
For a fun twist, try stuffing your meatballs with a small cube of mozzarella cheese. As the meatballs cook, the cheese will melt inside, creating a delicious cheesy center.
Baked Meatballs
If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying them. Be sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Spicy Meatballs
If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the meatball mixture for an extra kick.
Conclusion
These meatballs are truly the best, delivering juicy, flavorful bites every time. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress. With a simple mix of ingredients and just a few easy steps, you can whip up a batch of delicious meatballs that will become a family favorite. Perfect for any occasion, these meatballs are sure to make your next meal unforgettable!