Go Back
–+ servings
Authentic Italian Meatballs

Authentic Italian Meatballs: Secrets to Juicy Perfection

No ratings yet
Discover the secrets to juicy perfection with these Authentic Italian Meatballs, a hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 cup Fresh Breadcrumbs Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
  • ½ cup Pecorino Romano Cheese Grated Parmesan can be used if Pecorino is unavailable.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Use dried parsley if fresh isn't available, but reduce quantity.
  • 1 clove Garlic Enhances flavor; garlic powder can be used if necessary.
  • ¼ small Onion Onion powder is an alternative.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust based on dietary needs.
  • ¼ cup Whole Milk Substitute with half-and-half or water if necessary.
  • 2 large Eggs No substitutes recommended.
  • 2 pounds Ground Meat Blend of beef, pork, and veal.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Tomato Sauce Homemade is encouraged.
For Serving
  • 3 cups Pasta Any type is suitable.
  • 1 cup Ricotta Optional for creaminess.
  • ¼ cup Basil Optional fresh herb garnish.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix fresh breadcrumbs, salt, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and chopped parsley. Grate garlic and onion into the mixture.
  3. Add whole milk and eggs. Stir thoroughly until well incorporated.
  4. Gently fold in ground meat, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Form the meat mixture into balls approximately the size of a quarter cup and place on the lined baking sheet.
  6. Bake the meatballs for about 14 minutes, rotating halfway through.
  7. Transfer the baked meatballs to a pot of simmering tomato sauce and let them simmer for at least one hour.
  8. Serve the meatballs over pasta or alone, garnished with cheese, ricotta, and basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 2meatballsCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 28gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

Make a double batch for freezing and easy meals during busy nights.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!