Classic Meatballs

Name: Classic Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb ground pork; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup milk; 2 tbsp olive oil

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 40 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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There's something irresistibly comforting about a plate of classic meatballs. This recipe combines the perfect blend of beef and pork, creating tender and flavorful bites that are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're cooking for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, these meatballs are a delightful choice.

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Ingredients for Classic Meatballs

The combination of ground beef and ground pork offers a balance of flavor and fat, making the meatballs juicy but not overwhelmingly rich. Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture and keep the meatballs tender. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese brings umami and a hint of creaminess. Adding garlic and fresh parsley gives the meatballs a fragrant, herbaceous note. Eggs are crucial for binding everything together, while salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors. A splash of milk adds moisture, ensuring the meatballs stay juicy. Finally, olive oil is used for browning the meatballs, adding a hint of richness.

Tips & Tricks

Use a light hand when mixing the ingredients; over-mixing can make the meatballs tough.
If you're short on fresh parsley, dried parsley can work too, though fresh gives a more vibrant flavor.
Browning the meatballs before baking adds flavor and texture, so don’t skip this step.
If you’re making these in bulk, freeze the uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer them to a bag for storage. This way, you can cook them straight from the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

Classic meatballs shine when served with spaghetti and marinara sauce, offering a timeless combination. Alternatively, serve them over creamy polenta for a comforting twist. For a lighter option, pair them with a fresh arugula salad and some crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use only beef or only pork?: Yes, you can, but the mix of beef and pork gives the best flavor and texture balance.
What if I don't have Parmesan cheese?: You can substitute with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano, or skip it if necessary.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?: They should be browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. You can also use a meat thermometer; they should reach 160°F (71°C).

Classic Meatballs Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's ready for the meatballs once they're browned. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, eggs, salt, and pepper. It's best to use your hands for this — it's a bit messy, but it ensures everything mixes evenly.

Pour in the milk and continue mixing until everything is well incorporated. Once mixed, shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs. Try to make them uniform so they cook evenly. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5 minutes per batch. This step adds a delicious crust and locks in the juices.

As you finish browning each batch, transfer the meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Slide the sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. They should be cooked through but still juicy. Check one by cutting it open — it should be no longer pink on the inside.

Once done, these meatballs are ready to be served. Pair them with your favorite pasta and sauce, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Perfectly balanced flavors from the mix of beef and pork.
A touch of Parmesan adds a subtle, cheesy richness.
Easy to prepare and adaptable for different meal styles.
Oven-baking ensures they're cooked through without being greasy.
Great for meal prep and freezes well for future meals.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1/2 lb ground pork

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

2 large eggs

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup milk

2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, eggs, salt, and pepper.

3. Add the milk and mix well until all ingredients are combined.

4. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs.

5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

6. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning to ensure all sides are browned, about 5 minutes per batch.