Classic Italian meatballs are always a hit! Here’s a simple and tasty recipe to make these delicious bites:
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp Italian seasoning
Olive oil for cooking
Optional Add-ins:
¼ cup chopped onion
¼ cup chopped bell pepper
¼ cup chopped mushrooms
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until everything is well combined.
Add Optional Veggies:
If using, stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms.
Form the Meatballs:
Shape the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs using your hands.
Prepare for Baking:
Arrange the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake:
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden.
Serve:
Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta.
Tips:
Mix of Meats: For a richer flavor, try using a combo of ground beef, pork, and veal.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep them tender.
Even Portioning: Use a cookie scoop to make uniform meatballs.
Crispy Finish: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes to get a crispy exterior.
Variations:
Italian-Style: Add ¼ cup chopped prosciutto or pancetta.
Spicy: Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes.
Greek-Style: Add ¼ cup crumbled feta.
Nutritional Benefits:
Protein: Ground beef is high in protein, iron, and zinc.
Calcium & Flavor: Parmesan adds calcium, protein, and a savory flavor.
Vitamins & Antioxidants: Parsley is a great source of vitamin C, K, and antioxidants.
Buon appetito! Enjoy your homemade Italian meatballs!
