Homemade Meatballs Recipe – Juicy & Flavorful Comfort Food

Updated on August 12, 2024
Homemade Meatballs Recipe – Juicy & Flavorful Comfort Food

If you're craving a comforting, home-cooked meal, these juicy and flavorful meatballs are the perfect solution. They are easy to prepare, versatile, and can be served with a variety of dishes, such as spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or even as a filling in a sandwich. This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys cooking their own meals, offering a blend of savory spices and tender meat. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you'll find these meatballs easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Servings
4-6
Prep Time
20m
Cook Time
25m
Total Time
45m

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
  • Marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Mix the Ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Use your hands to mix everything until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2

Form the Meatballs. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch (4 cm) meatballs, rolling them gently between your hands. You should get about 18-20 meatballs.

Step 3

Fry the Meatballs. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are browned on all sides and cooked through.

Step 4

Serve. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a serving dish. If desired, simmer them in marinara sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb more flavor. Serve hot with your favorite side dish or as part of a larger meal.

Recipe tips

Fresh garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese will give the meatballs a much richer flavor compared to their dried or pre-grated counterparts. Overmixing the meat can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until everything is combined. Let the meatball mixture rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before shaping. This makes it easier to form the meatballs and helps them hold their shape while cooking. If you have time, simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows them to soak up even more flavor and stay extra moist.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories
320
Fats
22g
Carbohydrates
10g
Proteins
20g