# Homemade Italian Meatballs: A Taste of Italy in Your Kitchen
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
## Introduction
Craving for some Italian cuisine? Add a flavor punch to your meal with these savory homemade Italian Meatballs. This easy to make recipe will surely impress your friends and family, bringing them the delicious Mediterranean flavors right onto their plates!
## Why Make this Recipe
In the mood for some spaghetti and meatballs? This easy to master recipe not only helps you make meatballs from scratch but also gives you the freedom to know what’s going into your food. Plus, who doesn’t want to experience that warm Italian love right at their dinner table?
## How to Make Homemade Italian Meatballs
## Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 cup marinara sauce
## Directions
1. Combine ground beef, pork, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Mix until just blended.
2. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil. Add the meatballs, cooking until browned on all sides, approximately 8-10 minutes.
4. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for another 10 minutes until cooked through.
## How to Serve Homemade Italian Meatballs
These meatballs are extremely versatile! They can be served with your favorite traditional spaghetti, as a glorious topping on your pizza or even sandwiched between a crusty Italian bread making a delicious sub. Serve hot and garnish with basil leaves and extra parmesan.
## How to Store Homemade Italian Meatballs
Store these meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge and they can last up to 3-4 days. To freeze, arrange the cooked and cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
## Tips to Make Homemade Italian Meatballs
– Don’t overmix the meatball mixture, doing so could result in tough meatballs.
– Use a cookie scoop to form uniform-sized meatballs. This ensures that they cook evenly.
– Turning the meatballs frequently during cooking ensures an even browning.
## Variations
For a lighter version, you can also use ground turkey instead of beef or pork.
## FAQs
1. Can these meatballs be made gluten-free?
Yes, just replace the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative.
2. Should the meatballs be cooked before freezing?
Yes, cook the meatballs as per the instructions before freezing.
3. Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 425F and bake for about 20-25 minutes.