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Homemade Meatballs

Delicious and versatile homemade meatballs perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure to chop the parsley, onion, and mince the garlic before you begin.
  2. Mix the Meat: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Use your hands to break apart any clumps.
  3. Add Breadcrumbs and Cheese: Add the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture. This will help bind the meatballs and give them a rich flavor.
  4. Incorporate Vegetables and Spices: Next, add the chopped parsley, onion, and minced garlic. Then, sprinkle in the salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Mix everything together with your hands or a sturdy spoon until well incorporated.
  5. Add Eggs: Crack the two eggs into the mixture. The eggs help bind the meatballs together. Mix again until everything is evenly combined.
  6. Shape the Meatballs: Wet your hands with a little water to prevent sticking. Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball about the size of a golf ball. Place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet. This mixture should yield about 24-30 meatballs.
  7. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a few tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are browned all over. Turn them gently with a spatula to avoid breaking them.
  8. Check for Doneness: To ensure the meatballs are thoroughly cooked, use a meat thermometer. They should read at least 160°F (71°C) in the center.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, you can serve them immediately. They are delicious with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or enjoyed without any sides.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, use black beans or lentils mixed with breadcrumbs, cheese, and spices.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatballs, homemade, Italian, recipe, dinner