Name: Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min) – Taste the Juiciness!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup marinara sauce

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Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min) – Juicy Every Time

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m excited to share my Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min) – Juicy Every Time! As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. This recipe is a lifesaver, offering a quick and delicious solution for those hectic weeknights. Imagine juicy, flavorful meatballs that can impress your loved ones or simply satisfy your cravings. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a comforting meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Contents

Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min) – Juicy Every Time Why You’ll Love This Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)Ingredients for Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)How to Make Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)Step 1: Preheat the Oven Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture Step 3: Form the Meatballs Step 4: Bake the Meatballs Step 5: Simmer in Marinara Sauce Tips for Success Equipment Needed Variations of Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)Serving Suggestions for Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)FAQs about Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)Summarizing the Joy of Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)

Why You’ll Love This Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)

This Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min) is a game-changer for busy lives. It’s not just quick; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any night of the week. The taste? Oh, it’s like a warm hug from your Italian grandmother! Juicy, flavorful meatballs that pair beautifully with pasta or stand alone as a delightful appetizer. You’ll find yourself making this recipe again and again!

Ingredients for Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these juicy meatballs. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: The star of the show! Choose a good quality beef for maximum flavor and juiciness.
Breadcrumbs: These add texture and help bind the meatballs together. You can use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Grated Parmesan cheese: This brings a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the meatballs. Freshly grated is best, but pre-grated works too!
Chopped parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a pop of color. Feel free to substitute with basil or oregano if you prefer.
Egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together while keeping the meatballs moist.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the meatballs with a delicious aroma and flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste. Adjust to your preference!
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth. If you don’t have it, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
Marinara sauce: The perfect companion for your meatballs! Use store-bought or homemade for a personal touch.

For those who want to get creative, consider adding chopped onions for extra flavor or even some crushed red pepper for a kick. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheating the oven is crucial for achieving that perfect, juicy texture in your meatballs. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the meatballs cook evenly and develop a lovely golden-brown crust. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands to mix everything gently. Be careful not to overwork the meat; this can lead to tough meatballs. You want a well-combined mixture that’s still tender. If you feel adventurous, toss in some chopped onions for an extra flavor boost!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Now it’s time to shape your meatballs! Grab a handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball about one inch in diameter. This size helps them cook evenly. Keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticking. Remember, the goal is juicy meatballs, so don’t pack them too tightly!

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Place your formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for about 20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; it should be no longer pink inside. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 5: Simmer in Marinara Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat your marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs are done, gently add them to the sauce and let them simmer for about 5 minutes. This step allows the meatballs to soak up the delicious flavors of the sauce, making them even juicier!

Tips for Success

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the herbs and garlic.
Don’t overmix the meat; gentle handling keeps them tender.
Keep your hands damp when forming meatballs to prevent sticking.
For extra juiciness, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking.
Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor to your liking!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
Baking sheet: Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips. A casserole dish is a good alternative.
Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking. Aluminum foil can be used if you don’t have parchment.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but great for checking doneness. A knife can also help you cut one open.

Variations of Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)

Turkey Meatballs: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option. They’ll still be juicy and delicious!
Vegetarian Meatballs: Use lentils or chickpeas as a base, adding breadcrumbs and spices for flavor. Perfect for meatless meals!
Spicy Meatballs: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a kick that’ll wake up your taste buds!
Cheesy Meatballs: Incorporate small cubes of mozzarella cheese into the meat mixture for a gooey surprise in every bite.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions for Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)

Serve over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic Italian meal.
Pair with a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a light side.
Offer garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
For drinks, a glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with extra parsley or grated Parmesan for a lovely presentation!

FAQs about Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights!

What can I serve with Italian meatballs? These juicy meatballs are perfect with spaghetti, but you can also serve them in a sub sandwich, on a bed of rice, or even as an appetizer with toothpicks!

Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes! After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just reheat in marinara sauce when you’re ready to enjoy!

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? No worries! You can create your own blend using dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Just mix equal parts of each for a delicious substitute.

How do I know when the meatballs are done? The best way is to use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have one, cut one open to check that it’s no longer pink inside.

Summarizing the Joy of Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min)

There’s something truly special about gathering around the table to enjoy my Classic Italian Meatballs Recipe (35 Min). The aroma wafting through the kitchen brings back memories of family dinners and laughter. Each juicy meatball is a little bite of happiness, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re serving them over pasta or as a tasty appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress. Plus, knowing that I can whip them up in just 35 minutes makes me feel like a culinary superhero! So, roll up your sleeves and let the joy of cooking fill your home!