Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
classic meatballs 49.png

classic meatballs

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

🍝 Enjoy tender and juicy meatballs that are perfect for pairing with pasta, subs, or your favorite side dishes.
🍲 Make these classic meatballs and experience a comforting meal that’s rich in flavor and easy to prepare.

  • Total Time: 30-40 minutes
  • Yield: 16-24 meatballs

Ingredients

– Β½ cup fresh white bread crumbs crust removed

– β…“ cup dried breadcrumbs

– ΒΌ cup milk

– 2 egg yolks

– 1 whole egg

– Β½ cup grated Pecorino Romano

– Β½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 garlic cloves finely chopped

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

– 1 pound ground beef chuck

– 1 pound ground pork shoulder

– 1 pound veal

– ΒΌ cup grated onion

– β…“ cup fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley chopped

– β…“ cup fresh basil chopped

– Olive oil

– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

First Step: Make the Panade and Prepare Ingredients
Soak your fresh breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes, creating a panade that locks in moisture and keeps your meatballs tender. Meanwhile, finely chop garlic, herbs, and grate the cheese if not pre-grated. Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C) if baking.

Second Step: Mix Meat and Bread Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef chuck and pork shoulder (or veal if using) with the grated onion, followed by the soaked breadcrumb mixture. Mash the breadcrumb mixture by hand or fork, then add the egg yolks, grated cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs. Mix gently, avoiding overworking the meat to keep the texture tender.

Third Step: Shape Meatballs
Using a ΒΌ-cup measuring cup or cookie scoop, portion the mixture evenly. With wet hands to prevent sticking, roll each portion into uniform meatballs approximately 1Β½ to 2 inches in diameter. Transfer to a baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for about an hour to help them hold their shape during cooking.

Fourth Step: Cook Meatballs
For stovetop cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then lower heat, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes until cooked through with an internal temperature of 160-165Β°F (71-74Β°C). For oven cooking, arrange meatballs spaced on an oiled baking sheet and bake uncovered for 18-22 minutes, turning halfway. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.

Final Step: Optional Finishing and Serving
To enhance flavor, simmer the browned meatballs in tomato or marinara sauce for 10-12 minutes, ensuring they are fully cooked and infused with sauce. Serve with pasta, in subs, or as a versatile protein addition to various dishes. Garnish with extra fresh parsley for brightness.

Last Step:

Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.

Notes

πŸ§‚ Using ground beef chuck and pork shoulder ensures juicy and flavorful meatballs due to their fat content.
πŸ₯– Fresh breadcrumbs from hearty bread result in a lighter texture than dried breadcrumbs.
πŸ₯› Panade made with milk-soaked breadcrumbs is key to keeping meatballs tender and moist.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chilling: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 15-25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying and Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: High-Protein

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 meatball
  • Calories: 180-280
  • Sugar: 1-3 g
  • Sodium: 246-480 mg
  • Fat: 13-15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0.3-1 g
  • Protein: 12-24 g