Meatball Recipe

Discover the ultimate meatball recipe with tender beef and pork, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Perfect for spaghetti, subs, or soups, these easy-to-make meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and customizable. Learn to sauté or bake them to perfection for a classic, comforting dish. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping!

Ingredients

• 3 slices white bread, crusts removed, diced
• 2/3 cup milk or cold water
• 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15 fat content)
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1 large egg
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 Tbsp parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 Tbsp olive oil, for sautéing

Instructions

How to Make Meatballs:

1. Prepare the Bread Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine diced bread with 2/3 cup milk or water. Let it soak for 5 minutes, then mash with a fork until it forms a paste.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
   • To the mashed bread crumbs, add ground beef, ground pork, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
   • Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, portion the mixture onto a lined baking sheet (about 2 Tbsp per meatball). Wet your hands and roll each portion into a ball approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter.

How to Cook Meatballs:

To Sauté:

1. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 2 Tbsp olive oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the meatballs into the skillet in a single layer. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Sear the meatballs, turning every 2 minutes, for a total of 6-8 minutes, or until evenly browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F). Serve immediately or use in your favorite recipes.

To Bake:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the meatballs 2 inches apart on the prepared sheet.
3. Bake for 20-23 minutes, or until the centers reach 160°F. For a golden finish, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender and Juicy: Soaking the bread ensures a moist and tender texture.
• Versatile: Perfect as a standalone dish or as an addition to pasta, subs, or soups.
• Homemade Goodness: Made from scratch with fresh ingredients for unbeatable flavor.
• Customizable: Easily adapt to dietary needs or personal preferences.

Tips

• Bread Soaking: Ensure the bread is fully soaked and mashed to avoid dry meatballs.
• Gentle Mixing: Overmixing can make the meatballs dense. Mix just until combined.
• Uniform Size: Use an ice cream scoop for evenly sized meatballs, ensuring they cook at the same rate.
• Temperature Check: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach 160°F for food safety.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Proteins: Swap the pork with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Cheese Options: Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Replace bread with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
• Herb Additions: Add dried oregano or basil for an extra burst of flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make meatballs ahead of time? A: Yes, shape the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: Can I freeze meatballs? A: Absolutely! Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Q: What can I use instead of bread? A: Substitute with breadcrumbs, rolled oats, or even crushed crackers.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic pairing.
• Use in meatball subs with melted mozzarella and marinara.
• Add to soups or stews for a hearty meal.

Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired dinner.
• Drizzle with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a decadent twist.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.