EASY HOMEMADE MEATBALLS

The Joy of Homemade Meatballs

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of homemade meatballs. They’re not just a meal; they’re memories, gatherings, and a wonderfully quick way to satisfy cravings. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a cozy get-together, these easy homemade meatballs can elevate any occasion. My journey with meatballs started young, and this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for its vibrant flavors and simplicity.

Reasons to Try It

Why might this dish capture your heart (and taste buds)? For starters, these meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or even with toothpicks as party appetizers. They bring joy to kids, adults, and anyone in between, making them perfect for family dinners. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and can be made in large batches, so you can easily meal prep for the week!

“I made these meatballs last night, and my kids devoured them! It’s a weeknight miracle!” – A satisfied home cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Ready to dive into the art of meatball making? The process is as simple as it gets. We’ll start by gathering the ingredients, prepping a flavorful mixture, and then shaping those delicious balls before cooking. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress!

What You’ll Need

To get started on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 lb. bulk Italian sausage
• 1 lb. ground beef

Note: Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can also add fresh herbs for an extra kick!

Cooking Method

Let’s get those meatballs rolling! Follow these steps for perfect meatballs every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the eggs, then add in the milk.
4. In a large mixing bowl, pour the breadcrumb mixture, eggs, Italian sausage, and ground beef. Gently mix until fully combined.
5. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes – this helps with the binding and flavors melding.
6. Shape into 32 meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the meatballs on it.
8. Bake for 15 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

If you prefer the stovetop method, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Once browned, transfer them to a pot of your favorite red sauce to simmer.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs are like a blank canvas – there are countless ways to serve them! Try them over spaghetti with marinara sauce or tucked into a crusty sub with melted cheese for a classic meatball sandwich. Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Wondering how to store the extras? After cooling, place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months – perfect for quick meals in the future.

Pro Chef Tips

Here are some insider tips for crafting the perfect meatballs:

• Don’t overmix: When combining the meat mixture, gently fold to keep the meatballs tender.
• Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniformity in size, which helps them cook evenly.
• Experiment with seasonings: Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth or red pepper flakes for heat.

Different Ways to Try It

The beauty of meatballs lies in their adaptability:

• Swap proteins: Try chicken or turkey instead of beef or pork.
• Add veggies: Finely chopped spinach or bell peppers can be mixed in for added nutrition.
• Ditch the breadcrumbs: Use cooked quinoa for a gluten-free option!

Common Questions

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef and pork combinations.

Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to shape and cook.

What’s the best way to reheat meatballs?
For best results, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat in some sauce, or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

These easy homemade meatballs are not just a dish; they are an experience. As you gather around the table with family and friends, each bite is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Happy cooking!

Homemade Meatballs

Comforting homemade meatballs that are versatile and perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to parties.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 meatballs

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 90

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the meatballs

• 1 lb bulk Italian sausage Feel free to swap for ground turkey or chicken.
• 1 lb ground beef Can be replaced with other meats.
• 2 large eggs Lightly whisked.
• 1/4 cup whole milk

For the flavor

• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the eggs, then add in the milk.
4. In a large mixing bowl, pour the breadcrumb mixture, eggs, Italian sausage, and ground beef. Gently mix until fully combined.
5. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes.
6. Shape into 32 meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Cooking

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the meatballs on it.
2. Bake for 15 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. For stovetop method, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Transfer to a pot of your favorite red sauce to simmer.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months.