Baked Italian Meatballs: Mom's Classic, Oven-Baked Goodness
Right, so you're craving comfort food? Something that screams "Sunday dinner" but won't chain you to the stove all day?
Grandma's Secret: The Best Meatball Recipe Baked
Honestly, who doesn't love homemade italian meatballs ? they're like a warm hug in food form. i'm going to tell you a secret, this italian meatballs recipe is so simple.
It's also totally delicious. i remember my nan making these every sunday (well, similar anyway, my nan wasn't italian!). it really feels nostalgic.
A Trip Down Memory Lane With An Italian Classic
This meatball recipe baked is all about bringing a bit of that traditional, italian american goodness to your table. while the exact origins are debated, it's safe to say these little balls of joy are a staple in italian american homes.
This recipe is easy peasy and takes about an hour start to finish. the recipe makes around 24 meatballs. perfect for a crowd or some seriously tasty leftovers! i usually get about 6 servings from it as a main meal.
Benefits That'll Make You Say "Mamma Mia!"
One of the biggest wins here? it's baked! that means less fat and no crazy oil splatters all over your hob.
Plus, they are packed with protein and flavour. these baked beauties are perfect for a casual get-together, a cosy family pasta dinner recipes , or even just a quick weeknight meal.
Honestly, what makes this so special is the simplicity. anyone can make it!.
Now, let's dive into the good stuff... the ingredients!
Alright, let's get this show on the road, shall we? you know, i've been tinkering with this meatball recipe baked for ages, and i think i’ve finally cracked it.
Honestly, it's so easy even my brother, who once burned water, could probably manage it.
Ingredients & Equipment for Amazing Meatballs
Let's talk about the bits and bobs you'll need for this Italian Meatballs Recipe . I'm all about keeping it simple. No need for fancy gadgets, just the basics will do.
Main Ingredients: Get Ready to Rumble
Okay, so first up, the meat . we’re talking 1 lb (454g) of ground beef , ideally with a bit of fat (80/20 is my go-to).
And ½ lb (227g) of ground pork . trust me, the pork adds so much flavour. quality is key here. look for beef that's a nice, vibrant red, not grey.
The pork should be pink and firm.
Then you’ll need 1 cup (100g) of panko breadcrumbs . panko is the bomb. they give the meatballs a light, airy texture.
Plus, ½ cup (50g) of grated parmesan cheese . the real stuff, not the powdery stuff in a can! and ¼ cup (60ml) of milk .
Any kind will do. we also need 2 large eggs , ¼ cup (5g) of fresh parsley (finely chopped), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon of dried italian seasoning , ½ teaspoon of salt , ¼ teaspoon of black pepper , and ¼ cup (60ml) of olive oil .
Drizzling this over the meatballs before baking helps get them nice and brown.
Seasoning Notes: The Spice is Right
This is where we inject some serious flavour, you know? the italian seasoning is a must, it's the backbone of these homemade italian meatballs .
You can easily tweak this meatball recipes easy with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick, or a dash of oregano for extra earthiness.
Also, i find a little pinch of garlic powder amplifies the flavours too. don't be shy. if you want to sub out dried herbs for fresh ones, just remember to triple the amount, innit? fresh herbs have less punch.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple!
Right, let’s talk equipment. we aren't building the death star here. you’ll need a large mixing bowl . obviously. a baking sheet .
Essential for baking your meatballs. parchment paper is your friend here. makes cleanup a doddle. measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
A small bowl for the wet ingredients. makes life easier. oh, and a cookie scoop! totally optional, but it helps make uniform meatballs.
And that's it! told you it was easy.
Now, these meatballs are absolutely divine served with a dollop of marinara sauce and some fettuccine alfredo . you can also create a delicious pasta dinner recipes .
Feeling adventurous? toss them into a hearty minestrone soup. these are also perfect as a beef dinner , or just a part of your beef recipes easy rotation.
My dad also enjoys them for beef recipes for dinner - even if he is just adding it to the side of a plate!
Next up, the recipe!
Alright, gather 'round, you lovely lot! let's chat about a proper meatball recipe baked . honestly, who has time to stand over a hot stove, dodging oil splatters? baking is where it’s at! according to statista, 62% of brits prefer home cooked meals.
So, let's get cooking!
Prep Like a Pro for Perfect Meatballs
Essential Mise en Place Get Sorted!
First things first. the secret to any banging dish is getting prepped. we call it mise en place , fancy french for "everything in its place".
Chop your parsley, mince your garlic, grate your parmesan. have it all ready to go. this is especially important for this homemade italian meatballs recipe.
Trust me, you'll thank me later.
Time Saving Tricks: Organisation is Key
Seriously, measure out all your spices into a little bowl beforehand. bash the garlic a few times to make it easier to peel.
And, if you're feeling extra lazy (like me on a tuesday), buy pre-minced garlic! honestly, it will make all the difference and will give you time for a nice cup of tea!
Safety First, Folks!
Right, a quick word on safety. wash your hands before you start and after handling raw meat. don't lick the spoon.
And for the love of mary berry, keep raw meat away from your cooked grub. we don't want any nasty surprises.
Baking Magic: step-by-step
Here's how to nail this Italian Meatballs Recipe , the easy way:
- Crank up your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Pop some baking paper on your baking tray, less mess.
- Mix milk and eggs. Do this in a smaller bowl.
- Grab your biggest bowl. Combine all the beefy stuff: ground beef (1 lb) and pork (1/2 lb), the breadcrumbs (1 cup), parmesan (1/2 cup), parsley (1/4 cup), garlic (2 cloves), Italian seasoning (1 tsp), salt (1/2 tsp), and pepper (1/4 tsp).
- Pour the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don’t overdo it!
- Give it a rest for 15 minutes.
- Roll them! Make your meatballs, roughly 1 inch each.
- Spread 'em out on the tray.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the top (1/4 cup).
- Bake for 25- 30 minutes . Look for a lovely brown colour. Internal temp must hit 165° F ( 74° C) .
Meatball Masterclass: Pro Tips
Expert Moves (and Cheats!)
Adding a splash of red wine to the mix gives it a right kick. some people use a bit of ricotta, but i personally think it makes them too soggy.
Also, lightly toast your breadcrumbs for extra flavour.
Dodgy Meatball Mistakes
Overmixing is the enemy! It makes them tough as old boots. Also, don't skip the resting time. The breadcrumbs need to soak up all the goodness.
make-ahead Magic
You can totally make these meatball recipes easy ahead of time. just form the meatballs, pop them on a tray, and freeze them.
Then, bake straight from frozen. just add extra time, it will be fine.
Right, so there you have it! my guide to baking the perfect meatball. whip up some fettuccine alfredo , or even a comforting bowl of minestrone to serve alongside! whether you’re after pasta dinner recipes or beef recipes easy for a mid-week treat, these meatballs are amazing.
You can even serve these with a juicy beef dinner recipe! honestly, they're lush! give it a whirl and let me know what you think! and don't be afraid to experiment.
You know, add a bit of yourself into the recipe.
Alright, let's dive into some extra bits and bobs for your meatball recipe baked masterpiece! Think of these as the finishing touches, the little secrets that take your Homemade Italian Meatballs from "good" to "Oh my gosh, these are amazing!"
Recipe Notes
Serving Suggestions: Make 'Em Look Good!
Honestly, presentation matters! don't just chuck those beauties on a plate. for a fancy touch, arrange your italian meatballs recipe on a bed of creamy polenta.
Or, think about a simple pasta dinner recipes like tossing them with some fettuccine alfredo . a sprinkle of fresh parsley never hurts! a nice minestrone on the side makes a super satisfying, well rounded dinner.
Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh
Got leftovers? (if you do, you're stronger than i am!) pop those meatball recipe baked into an airtight container and they'll be good in the fridge for 3-4 days.
To freeze, spread them out on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. this stops them from sticking together.
Reheat in the oven, microwave, or simmer them directly in your sauce.
Variations: Let's Get Creative!
Feeling adventurous? try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. want something lighter? swap out the beef and pork for ground turkey to get some meatball recipes easy .
Are you gluten-free? use gluten-free breadcrumbs. easy peasy! if you want beef recipes for dinner these meatball recipe baked are a wonderful option because is one of the beef recipes easy .
This beef dinner is a wonderful experience!
Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff
Okay, so let's get a little real. these meatballs are delish , but they aren't exactly health food. they are, however, packed with protein, which is great for keeping you full and energized.
And hey, a little bit of parmesan is actually a good source of calcium. just be mindful of portion sizes, you know?
So there you have it! All my insider tips and tricks for the perfect meatball recipe baked . Don't be afraid to experiment, have fun, and most importantly, enjoy every single bite! I know you can do it, my friend! Now go get your bake on!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my baked meatballs from being dry? They always end up like hockey pucks!
Nobody wants a hockey puck meatball! The key to tender, juicy baked meatballs is moisture. First, don't overmix the ingredients; this toughens the meat. Secondly, ensure your breadcrumbs are moist soaking them in milk helps.
Also, using a higher fat content ground beef (like 80/20) will add flavour and moisture.
Can I freeze this baked meatball recipe? What's the best way to do it?
Absolutely! Freezing is a fantastic way to have meatballs on hand for a quick meal. Let the baked meatballs cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour or two until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container.
This prevents them from sticking together. They'll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in your favourite sauce think of it as your secret weapon for a midweek meal, a real lifesaver when you're rushed!
What kind of sauce goes best with this meatball recipe baked in the oven?
Ah, the sauce is where the magic happens! A classic marinara sauce is always a winner, pairing perfectly with the Italian herbs and parmesan in the meatballs. For a richer flavor, a slow simmered tomato sauce with onions and garlic is amazing.
If you fancy something different, try a creamy pesto sauce, but stick with the marinara for tradition's sake, after all it's a classic for a reason!
Can I use different types of meat in this baked meatball recipe?
Definitely! While this recipe calls for a blend of ground beef and pork, you can experiment. Ground turkey or chicken are leaner alternatives, just be sure to add a little extra olive oil to prevent them from drying out. You can also use Italian sausage for a spicier, more flavorful meatball.
Think of this recipe as a base, feel free to be a culinary maverick!
How can I make this baked meatball recipe gluten-free?
Going gluten-free doesn't mean sacrificing flavour! Simply swap out the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can find these at most supermarkets or health food stores. Alternatively, you can use almond flour or even crushed gluten-free crackers as a binder.
Just be sure to check all your other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free too.
What's the best way to tell if my baked meatballs are cooked all the way through?
The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the centre of a meatball, and it should read 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a thermometer, cut one meatball in half; the inside should be cooked through with no pink remaining.
Remember, safety first; nobody wants a dodgy tummy from undercooked meatballs!
Baked Italian Meatballs Mom S Classic Oven Baked
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 0g |
