20 Easy Italian Meatball Recipe With Ground Beef Unlock Flavor Sensations!

Published on: Mar 15, 2024

Looking for a delicious and easy Italian meatball recipe? Look no further! This recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings with its flavorful combination of ground beef, aromatic herbs, and tangy tomato sauce. Plus, it's simple enough to make on a busy weeknight or impress guests at a dinner party. So, let's get cooking!

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Gather Your Ingredients

Before starting this recipe, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. You'll need ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, eggs, fresh parsley, olive oil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt and pepper, and your favorite marinara sauce. These ingredients can easily be found at your local grocery store, and you may even have some of them in your pantry already.

Choose High-Quality Ground Beef

When making meatballs, it's important to choose a high-quality ground beef. Look for lean beef with at least 80% lean to 20% fat ratio. This will ensure that your meatballs are moist and flavorful without being too greasy. You can also opt for ground beef that is labeled "ground chuck" or "ground sirloin" for an even leaner option.

Don't Overwork the Meat

When mixing the ground beef with the other ingredients, be careful not to overwork the meat. Overworking the meat can result in tough and dense meatballs. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients together until just combined. This will ensure that your meatballs are tender and juicy.

Cooking the Meatballs

To cook the meatballs, you have a few options. You can bake them in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, fry them in a skillet over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, or simmer them in your favorite marinara sauce for 20-25 minutes. Whichever method you choose, make sure to cook the meatballs until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Make Ahead and Freeze

This recipe is perfect for meal prep or making ahead for a busy week. You can freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to three months, or freeze the cooked meatballs in the marinara sauce for up to six months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

This easy Italian meatball recipe with ground beef is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Serve them over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as a party appetizer. And don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings and sauces to make this recipe your own. So grab your apron and give this recipe a try for a taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home.