Best Homemade Meatballs Recipe: Easy & Delicious

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The Ultimate Homemade Meatballs Recipe

Craving tender, juicy meatballs that taste like they came straight from your grandmother's kitchen? Look no further! This homemade meatballs recipe is incredibly easy to follow, uses simple ingredients, and delivers mouthwatering results every single time. Forget store-bought – once you taste these, you'll never go back. — Taylor Swift: The Showgirl Era & Her Iconic Songs

Why This Recipe Works

  • Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry.
  • Easy to Follow: Clear, step-by-step instructions ensure success even for beginner cooks.
  • Versatile: Perfect for pasta, meatball subs, or as an appetizer.
  • Delicious: A perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

What You'll Need

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal)
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Your favorite marinara sauce, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for roughly 20-24 meatballs.
  3. Brown the Meatballs (Optional): For added flavor and texture, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. This step is optional, but highly recommended.
  4. Simmer in Sauce: Transfer the meatballs to a pot of your favorite marinara sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld. The longer they simmer, the more tender and flavorful they become.
  5. Serve: Serve the meatballs over pasta, in meatball subs, or enjoy them as an appetizer with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the meatballs are cooked through by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
  • Add Moisture: If the mixture seems dry, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
  • Freeze for Later: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Simply place the cooked (and cooled) meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

  • Italian Meatballs: Use Italian-style breadcrumbs and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for the ground beef and pork for a leaner option.
  • Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pasta Night: Serve with spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta shape.
  • Meatball Subs: Load the meatballs into hoagie rolls with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
  • Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and a dipping sauce for a party-friendly appetizer.

This homemade meatballs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the best meatballs you've ever tasted! — Rose Black Spot: How Does It Spread?

Ready to try it? Share your meatball creations with us on social media using #HomemadeMeatballs! — Samantha Koenig: The Tragic Kidnapping Case Explained