Savory Herb-Infused Meatballs
Get ready to whip up some savory herb-infused meatballs that pack a flavorful punch. This recipe combines succulent meats with fresh herbs for a delightful twist on a classic dish. Whether you're serving them for dinner or as party appetizers, these meatballs are sure to impress.
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Ingredients for Savory Herb-Infused Meatballs
Ground beef and ground pork form the base, delivering a juicy, flavorful bite. The beef provides a hearty texture, while the pork adds a touch of sweetness and moisture. Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture and keep the meatballs tender. Parmesan cheese adds a nutty richness, complementing the savory flavors. Garlic infuses the meatballs with a robust aroma, while fresh parsley and fresh basil introduce a burst of herbal freshness. An egg acts as a binder, ensuring the meatballs hold together. Salt and black pepper enhance the overall taste, and a splash of milk keeps them moist and tender. Finally, olive oil is used for searing, adding a subtle fruitiness.
Savory Herb-Infused Meatballs Tips & Tricks
- Use a light hand when mixing to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
- You can make these meatballs ahead of time and freeze them raw. Just thaw before cooking.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones will work, but use half the amount as they’re more potent.
- Consider using a cookie scoop for uniform meatball sizes; it speeds up the process.
Serving Ideas for Savory Herb-Infused Meatballs
These meatballs are versatile and pair beautifully with classic marinara sauce over spaghetti for a comforting meal. For an appetizer, serve them with toothpicks and a side of pesto or aioli for dipping. Alternatively, make meatball subs with melted mozzarella and marinara on a crusty roll. They’re also fantastic alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use all beef or all pork instead of a mix?
- Absolutely, but keep in mind that the combination of both provides a balance of flavor and moisture.
- What if I’m out of breadcrumbs?
- You can substitute with crushed crackers or oats in a pinch.
- Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
- Yes, just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Savory Herb-Infused Meatballs Recipe Walkthrough
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that it's ready to go once you've seared the meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, basil, egg, salt, pepper, and milk. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until it's all evenly incorporated. You’re looking for a uniform mixture without overworking it, which can make the meatballs tough.
Next, form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. If you're like me, you'll eyeball it, but feel free to use a measuring spoon if you want consistency. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, carefully place the meatballs in batches, giving them room so they don't steam. Sear them until they're browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. This step locks in juices and adds a nice crust.
Transfer the seared meatballs to a baking sheet. Bake them in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. You’re aiming for them to be cooked through but not dry. They should be firm to the touch but still have a little give. Serve them warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Why This Savory Herb-Infused Meatballs Works
- Perfect balance of beef and pork for optimal flavor and texture.
- Infused with fresh herbs for an aromatic experience.
- Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining.
- Flexible enough to pair with various sauces and sides.
- Easy to freeze for meal prep or 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 fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 egg
- 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 400°F.
- 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, basil, egg, salt, pepper, and milk.
- 3. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- 4. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls using your hands.
- 5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- 6. Sear the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch.
- 7. Transfer the meatballs to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
- 8. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.