Quick & Easy Italian Meatballs Recipe
This Recipe is written by Lea | Published on December 14, 2024
Meatballs are one of those meals that everyone loves, and this Italian meatballs recipe is so simple to make! These meatballs are soft, juicy, and full of flavor. The best part? They don’t take much time or effort, but they taste amazing.
I use these for my spaghetti and meatballs recipe, definitely heck it out as it’s a family favorite! So, if you’re planning dinner or just want something homemade and comforting, this is the easy meatball recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
Understanding The Ingredients:
Ground Beef
The ideal ratio for tender and flavorful meatballs is 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat). If you prefer, you can also mix ground beef with ground pork for added richness and juiciness.Milk
Milk is essential for soaking the breadcrumbs, creating a soft, moist texture in the meatballs. This step is what gives the meatballs their amazing, melt-in-your-mouth quality. If you’re avoiding dairy, I haven’t tried vegan milk in this recipe, but if you must use it, ensure it’s unsweetened and unflavored. Don’t use water as a substitute; it won’t provide the same result. You can use yogurt instead (1/4 cup works well), which adds moisture and a slight tang.Italian Bread Crumbs
Italian breadcrumbs are pre-seasoned with herbs like parsley, onion, and garlic. If you can’t find them, you can use plain breadcrumbs and mix in garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Panko breadcrumbs can also work but still require milk or yogurt for soaking.Italian Seasoning
If you can’t find premade Italian seasoning, make your own with a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. This blend gives the meatballs their signature Italian flavor.Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the taste of the meatballs. If you don’t like parmesan, you can substitute mozzarella or another favorite cheese, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs. The recipe works just as well with a gluten-free substitute.What if I don’t have milk or yogurt?
Toast can be used instead of breadcrumbs, and in this case, you won’t need milk or yogurt. Keep in mind that substitutions may slightly alter the texture and flavor.Can I freeze meatballs?
Absolutely! Form the meatballs into balls and place them on a tray in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.What can I do if I’m allergic to eggs?
You can omit the egg entirely. The breadcrumbs and milk will still help bind the meatballs together.What if I don’t have Italian breadcrumbs?
You can use plain breadcrumbs and add your own seasoning, such as garlic powder, dried parsley, and onion powder.Can I make meatballs without parmesan cheese?
Yes, mozzarella or any other cheese you like can be used instead. Keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly.
How To Make Easy & Delicious Italian Meatballs:
Easy Italian Meatballs Recipe
COOK TIME: 20 minutes | SERVINGS: Approximately 32 meatballs
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small plate or bowl, combine milk and bread crumbs. Stir well and set aside to allow the bread crumbs to soak and absorb the milk.
- In a blender or food processor, add the onion and parsley. Blend until finely chopped.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked bread crumbs, and the onion-parsley mixture. Mix gently to incorporate.
- Add the egg, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan cheese to the meat mixture. Mix thoroughly but do not overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the mixture into balls of your desired size, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. Note: The first half may take slightly longer to brown than the second half, so keep an eye on them.
- Once the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips to Make the Best Italian Meatballs:
Soak the Breadcrumbs Properly
Allow enough time for the breadcrumbs to soak up the milk. This step ensures a tender texture in your meatballs.Don’t Overwork the Meat
Mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing can make your meatballs tough instead of tender.Fresh Herbs Make a Difference
While dried herbs work, freshly chopped parsley elevates the flavor and adds a fresh note.Even Sizing
Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form even-sized meatballs. This helps them cook uniformly.Pair with Marinara
These meatballs shine when paired with a good homemade marinara sauce, perfect for spaghetti and meatballs or even meatball subs!
