Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe

4 stars
3.66 (14)
Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 30, 2023

Try this mouthwatering recipe for Bon Appétit's Meatballs. These classic Italian meatballs are tender, flavorful, and perfect served with spaghetti or enjoyed on their own. Made with a combination of ground beef and pork, seasoned with herbs and spices, and simmered in a rich tomato sauce, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. They are simple to prepare and will impress your loved ones with their authentic Italian taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 pound spaghetti, cooked
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, eggs, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the marinara sauce. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
  6. Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  7. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Meatballs are a staple of Italian cuisine and have been enjoyed for centuries.
  • In Italy, meatballs are known as 'polpette' and are often served as a main course or as part of a pasta dish.
  • Adding both ground beef and ground pork to the meatball mixture adds richness and depth of flavor.
  • Using fresh herbs, such as parsley, and minced garlic enhances the taste of the meatballs.
  • Simmering the meatballs in marinara sauce infuses them with additional flavor and helps keep them tender and moist.