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–+ servings
Benjamin

Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe for Delicious Meals

Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor! These Classic Italian Meatballs are made with a savory blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Italian spices, then simmered in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for pasta, subs, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings (makes about 16 meatballs)
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 preferred
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 tablespoon dried
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Method
 

  1. Make Meatball Mixture:In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix gently with your hands until well combined—don’t overmix.
  2. Form Meatballs:Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a plate or tray.
  3. Brown the Meatballs:In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes total. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  4. Simmer in Sauce:In the same skillet, drain excess grease. Pour in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Gently add the browned meatballs to the sauce, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes until fully cooked through.
  5. Serve:Serve hot over spaghetti, in sub rolls, or as an appetizer with extra Parmesan and parsley garnish.

Notes

  • Ground Meat Options: You can use a mix of ground beef and pork for even more flavor.
  • Baking Option: Prefer baking? Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Meatballs can be shaped and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  • Freezing Instructions: Cooked meatballs freeze beautifully—store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

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