Name: Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs; ¼ cup milk; 2 egg yolks; ½ cup grated pecorino Romano cheese; 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 pound ground beef chuck; 1 pound ground pork; ⅓ cup chopped parsley

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Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!) are the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, game day, or a cozy night in. These meatballs are not only tender and juicy but also packed with flavor. You can bake them in the oven or cook them on the stovetop, making them versatile for your cooking style. Serve them with a quick homemade marinara sauce or over pasta for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The combination of ground beef, pork, and rich cheese gives these meatballs a delicious depth of flavor.
Versatile: Enjoy them with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or on their own as an appetizer.
Family-Friendly: With thousands of 5-star reviews, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Make Ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!), gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Mixing spoon or fork
Cookie scoop or measuring cup
Baking sheet (if baking)

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps you combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
Cookie scoop: This tool ensures uniform meatballs for even cooking and consistent serving sizes.
Baking sheet: Ideal for baking meatballs in the oven; it allows excess fat to drain away during cooking.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

½ cup fresh breadcrumbs (from 1-2 slices white bread, crust removed)
¼ cup milk
2 egg yolks
½ cup grated pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan cheese)
2 garlic cloves (finely chopped or grated)
1 teaspoon salt (or 2 teaspoons Diamond brand kosher salt)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pound ground beef chuck
1 pound ground pork (or veal)
¼ cup grated onion (optional)
⅓ cup chopped parsley (or basil)
Olive oil

How to Make Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!)

Step 1: Prepare the Breadcrumbs

Put the breadcrumbs in a small bowl and pour the milk over them. Let them soak for about 5 minutes. Then add the egg yolks, cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper to this mixture. Mash everything together until you form a coarse paste.

Step 2: Mix the Meats

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork (and onion if using). Use a fork to blend these meats well. Then add in the soaked breadcrumb mixture along with chopped parsley. Mix everything together thoroughly using your hands or a wooden spoon. Alternatively, use a standing mixer on low speed just until blended.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Use a ¼-cup measuring cup or cookie scoop to portion out the mixture. Roll each portion lightly into balls. Remember, they don’t have to be perfect; craggy meatballs have character and hold sauce better!

Now you’re ready to cook these delicious Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!). Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!)

Classic Italian meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these meatballs can elevate any dish. Here are some great serving suggestions:

On a Sub Roll

Create a hearty meatball sub by placing the meatballs in a toasted sub roll. Top with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for a delightful sandwich.

With Pasta

Serve the tender and juicy meatballs over spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Drizzle with homemade marinara sauce and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.

In a Meatball Bowl

Make a comforting meatball bowl by layering cooked quinoa or rice, steamed vegetables, and the meatballs. Add your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

On Skewers

For an appetizer, thread the meatballs onto skewers with bell peppers and onions. Grill them for a smoky flavor and serve with dipping sauces.

With Salad

Pair the meatballs with a fresh garden salad. This light option balances the richness of the meatballs while providing a healthy touch to your meal.

How to Perfect Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!)

Perfecting the art of classic Italian meatballs takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve tender and juicy results every time.

Choose Quality Meat: Use ground beef chuck and pork for great flavor. The right fat content keeps your meatballs moist.
Soak the Breadcrumbs: Soaking breadcrumbs in milk adds moisture to the mixture, ensuring each bite is juicy.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so handle gently.
Chill Before Cooking: Chilling the formed meatballs for 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
Opt for Craggy Shapes: Irregularly shaped meatballs hold sauces better and have more character.
Bake or Fry: Both methods work well! Baking is healthier, while frying gives a crispy exterior.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!)

Pairing classic Italian meatballs with the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some top choices:

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your plate.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness to balance out the richness of the meatballs.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the flavors of the meatballs.
Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as a fantastic base for your meatballs, adding comfort to your dish.
Risotto: A rich risotto pairs beautifully with classic Italian meatballs, creating an indulgent dinner experience.
Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil alongside your savory meatballs.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort food vibes that everyone loves alongside their favorite Italian dish.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make this salad refreshing and vibrant next to hearty meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Italian Meatballs, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Using stale bread: Fresh breadcrumbs ensure a better texture. Use bread that’s not too old to maintain moisture in your meatballs.
Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make meatballs tough. Blend just until combined for tender and juicy results.
Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your mixture well! Salt and pepper enhance flavors, so taste as you go.
Making them too large: Oversized meatballs can cook unevenly. Aim for uniform sizes, around 1-2 inches in diameter.
Not letting them rest: Allowing shaped meatballs to rest helps them firm up. This step prevents them from falling apart while cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

Store meatballs in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!)

Place meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!)

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until hot, checking frequently.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of sauce or water. Heat the meatballs, turning occasionally for even warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!)?

To make these delicious meatballs, combine fresh breadcrumbs with milk, egg yolks, cheese, garlic, and spices. Mix with ground beef and pork, shape into balls, then cook as desired.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or pork?

Yes! Ground turkey works well but may yield slightly different flavor and texture. Season it well for the best results.

How do I know when my meatballs are done?

Meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) or are no longer pink inside.

Can I customize the herbs used in Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!)?

Absolutely! Feel free to use basil, oregano, or parsley based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

What sauce pairs best with these meatballs?

A classic marinara sauce complements these meatballs perfectly. You can also try pesto or a creamy sauce for variety.

Final Thoughts

Classic Italian Meatballs (Tender and Juicy!) are a fantastic addition to any meal. Their rich flavor and tender texture make them perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe by adding herbs or spices that you love!