Meatballs Recipe

Meatballs are a beloved dish across many cultures, offering versatility, comfort, and a delightful combination of flavors. Whether served with spaghetti, nestled in a sub, or enjoyed on their own, meatballs can be customized to suit any palate. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making the perfect meatballs at home.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef, pork, and veal for more flavor)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.
• Add the ground meat, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
• Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

1. Cook the Meatballs:

• You can cook the meatballs by baking, frying, or simmering them directly in the sauce.
• For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
• For frying, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

1. Make the Sauce:

• In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency.

1. Combine and Simmer:

• Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and gently stir to coat them. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Stir in the fresh basil if using, and adjust the seasoning to taste.

1. Serve:

• Serve the meatballs hot over pasta, in a sub roll, or on their own with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

• Meat Mixture: Using a combination of meats, like beef, pork, and veal, can add more flavor and tenderness to your meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs yield a better texture than dry. You can make your own by pulsing bread in a food processor.
• Binding: Eggs and milk-soaked breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and keep them moist.
• Gentle Mixing: Overmixing can make meatballs tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Size Matters: Uniform size ensures even cooking. Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizing.
• Flavor Boost: Adding grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, and spices to the meat mixture enhances the flavor profile.

Variations

• Swedish Meatballs: Use a mixture of beef and pork, add allspice and nutmeg to the meat mixture, and serve with a creamy gravy.
• Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option and add chopped spinach for extra nutrients.
• Vegetarian Meatballs: Use lentils, chickpeas, or a blend of vegetables and grains to create a meatless version.
• Asian-Inspired Meatballs: Add ginger, soy sauce, and green onions to the meat mixture and serve with a sweet and tangy sauce.

Meatballs are a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. With this guide, you can master the art of making delicious, homemade meatballs that are sure to impress. Enjoy!