Description
Rich, tender, and bursting with flavor, these Classic Italian Meatballs are the perfect comfort food. Seasoned with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, they are simmered in a rich tomato sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving them with spaghetti, in a sandwich, or on their own, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, these meatballs deliver incredible taste and comforting warmth.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork (or Italian sausage)
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 large eggs
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Olive oil (for searing)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, parsley, eggs, minced garlic, diced onion, milk, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing. - Shape the Meatballs:
Form the mixture into evenly-sized meatballs (about 1½ inches in diameter). Chill for 30 minutes. - Sear the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear meatballs in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate. - Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, heat olive oil and cook onions for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes. - Combine and Simmer:
Return the meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan. Serve over spaghetti, with garlic bread, or as desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes