17 Nonna's Italian Meatball Recipe You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
In the world of Italian cuisine, there are few dishes that evoke the same sense of nostalgia and comfort as a plate of perfectly cooked meatballs. Whether it's a family gathering or a cozy night in, Nonna's Italian meatball recipe is a go-to for many households. Passed down through generations, this recipe has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved dish for many. In this article, we will delve into the history and ingredients of this delectable dish, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how to recreate it in your own kitchen. So put on your apron and get ready to experience the true taste of Italy with Nonna's Italian meatball recipe.
Main Ingredients: Medium Carrots, Celery, Yellow Onion, Italian
If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful soup that practically cooks itself, then this slow cooker Italian meatball soup is the perfect recipe for you. Tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and savory Italian herbs and spices come together in this comforting dish that will warm you up on a chilly day. The best part? It's so easy to make and requires minimal effort – just set it and forget it!
This classic Italian meatball soup is a family favorite, and for good reason. The tender meatballs, rich tomato broth, and al dente pasta create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that will transport you to the streets of Italy with every bite. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some vegetables for picky eaters!
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Italian Meatball Bites
Main Ingredients: Italian Meatballs, Biscuits, Shredded Mozzarella
Looking for a fun and tasty appetizer for your next party or game day? These Italian meatball bites are sure to be a hit. Juicy meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese come together in a bite-sized package that's bursting with flavor. They're easy to make and even easier to eat – perfect for any occasion!
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Slow Cooker Italian Meatball Stew
Main Ingredients: Italian Meatballs, Olive Oil, Carrots, Celery, Red Bell
Stews are the ultimate comfort food, and this slow cooker Italian meatball stew is no exception. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and intensify, creating a rich and hearty dish that will warm you from the inside out. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping and you have a complete meal that will please the whole family.
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Slow Cooker Italian Meatball and Tortellini Soup
Main Ingredients: Dried Basil, Dried Oregano, Diced Onion, Grated
Why choose between meatballs and pasta when you can have both? This slow cooker Italian meatball and tortellini soup combines two classic Italian dishes into one delicious meal. The tender meatballs, cheesy tortellini, and flavorful broth make for a satisfying and comforting soup that will become a staple in your household.
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Easy Italian Meatball Sandwiches
Main Ingredients: Italian Style Meatballs, Sandwiches, Marinara Sauce
Sometimes you just need a quick and easy meal that everyone will love. These easy Italian meatball sandwiches are the answer. Juicy meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey cheese come together in a soft bun for a sandwich that's both hearty and satisfying. It's a great option for busy weeknights or a weekend lunch.
If you're a fan of traditional Italian flavors, then this classic Italian meatball sandwich is a must-try. The homemade meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melted provolone cheese all come together in a crusty roll for a sandwich that's sure to satisfy your cravings. Serve it with a side of pasta or a salad for a complete meal.
Sliders are a fun and creative way to serve up your favorite dishes, and these Italian meatball sliders are no exception. The mini meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese make for a delicious and bite-sized sandwich that's perfect for parties or a fun dinner option. Plus, they're so easy to make and customize to your liking.
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Easy Italian Meatball Soup
Main Ingredients: Cooking Oil, Carrots, Celery, Onion, Tomato Paste
This easy Italian meatball soup is a great option for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. It uses store-bought frozen meatballs to save time, but still packs a punch of flavor with the addition of fresh vegetables and Italian herbs and spices. Serve it with crusty bread for a comforting and delicious dinner.
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Italian Meatball Pizza
Main Ingredients: Pillsbury Pizza Crust, Pizza Sauce, Cooked Italian
Who says you can't have pizza for dinner? This Italian meatball pizza combines the best of two worlds – pizza and meatballs – for a flavorful and satisfying meal. The homemade meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese all come together on a crispy pizza crust for a dish that will please both kids and adults alike.
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Italian Meatball Caprese Skewers
Main Ingredients: Italian Style Meatballs, Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, Grape
If you're looking for a fun and creative appetizer that's sure to impress, then these Italian meatball caprese skewers are the way to go. Tender meatballs, fresh mozzarella, and juicy cherry tomatoes are skewered together and drizzled with balsamic glaze for a bite-sized taste of Italy. They're perfect for parties or a light snack.
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Italian Meatball Stromboli
Main Ingredients: Italian Style Meatballs, Butter, Baby Portabella
Stromboli is a classic Italian dish that's essentially a rolled-up pizza, and this Italian meatball stromboli is a delicious twist on the traditional recipe. The homemade meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey cheese are rolled up in pizza dough and baked until golden brown and crispy. It's a fun and tasty meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Crock Pot Italian Meatball Soup
Main Ingredients: Italian Style Meatballs, Low Sodium Beef Broth, Water
If you love the convenience of slow cooker meals, then this crock pot Italian meatball soup is a must-try. Just throw all the ingredients in the crock pot in the morning and come home to a delicious and comforting meal in the evening. It's perfect for those busy days when you don't have time to fuss over dinner.
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Easy Slow Cooker Italian Meatball Subs
Main Ingredients: Italian Style Meatballs, Olive Oil, Crushed Tomatoes
Sub sandwiches are a classic and beloved meal, and these easy slow cooker Italian meatball subs are a tasty twist on the traditional recipe. The slow cooker does all the work, creating tender and flavorful meatballs in a rich tomato sauce. Just add some melted cheese and your favorite toppings for a delicious and easy dinner.
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Meatball Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Italian Meatballs, Oven Ready Lasagna Noodles, Ricotta
If you're a fan of lasagna, then this meatball lasagna is a must-try. The homemade meatballs are layered between lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta cheese, and tangy marinara sauce for a hearty and flavorful dish that will satisfy any pasta cravings. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover meatballs you may have.
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Neapolitan-Style Meatball Pizza
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Active Dry Yeast, Coarse Kosher
This Neapolitan-style meatball pizza is a delicious and authentic taste of Italy. The homemade meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella cheese are all cooked in a wood-fired oven for a crispy and flavorful pizza that will transport you to the streets of Naples. It's a must-try for any pizza lover.
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Italian Style Meatball Kabobs
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Pesto, Green Bell
Kabobs are a fun and easy way to enjoy your favorite dishes, and these Italian style meatball kabobs are a great option for a summer barbecue or a fun family dinner. The tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and tangy marinara sauce are all skewered together and grilled to perfection for a tasty and unique meal.
This Italian wedding casserole is a hearty and comforting meal that's perfect for feeding a crowd. It's essentially a deconstructed version of the classic Italian wedding soup, with tender meatballs, al dente pasta, and fresh vegetables all baked together in a creamy and flavorful sauce. It's a great option for potlucks or family gatherings.
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Abruzzese Italian Meatballs and Spaghetti
Main Ingredients: Italian Meatballs, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Tomatoes On
If you're a fan of spicy food, then these Abruzzese Italian meatballs and spaghetti are a must-try. The homemade meatballs are infused with spicy Calabrian chili peppers for a flavorful kick, and served over al dente spaghetti and a rich tomato sauce. It's a delicious and unique take on a classic dish.
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Hearty Italian Meatball Soup
Main Ingredients: Water, Diced Tomatoes, Beef Broth, Italian Seasoning
This hearty Italian meatball soup is a meal in itself. Packed with tender meatballs, al dente pasta, and fresh vegetables, it's a satisfying and comforting dish that's perfect for a chilly day. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.
The History of Nonna's Italian Meatball Recipe
A Traditional Dish with a Rich Heritage
Italian meatballs have been a staple of Italian cuisine for centuries. Originating in Southern Italy, they were traditionally made with a combination of minced meat, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. The name "meatball" actually comes from the Italian word "polpetta", meaning small ball, which is a nod to their size and shape. But it wasn't until Italian immigrants brought their recipes to America that meatballs gained widespread popularity and became an iconic dish in Italian-American cuisine.
A Family Recipe Passed Down Through Generations
Nonna's Italian meatball recipe has been passed down through the generations in many Italian families, with each one adding their own unique twist. This recipe holds a special place in the hearts of many, as it not only represents the flavors of Italy but also the love and memories that come with it. And with each new generation, this beloved dish continues to be a source of comfort and connection to their Italian heritage.
The Key Ingredients for Authentic Italian Meatballs
Ground Beef, Pork, and Veal
Nonna's Italian meatball recipe calls for a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal. This trifecta of meats adds depth of flavor and creates a perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness in the meatballs.
Breadcrumbs and Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese
To bind the meatballs and add a rich, nutty flavor, breadcrumbs and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese are essential ingredients. These also help to keep the meatballs moist and prevent them from becoming too dense.
Garlic, Onion, and Italian Seasonings
No Italian meatball recipe is complete without garlic, onion, and a blend of Italian seasonings. These aromatic ingredients infuse the meatballs with a burst of flavor, making them irresistible.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Making Nonna's Italian Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, and veal with the breadcrumbs, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and Italian seasonings. Use your hands to mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
Step 2: Roll the Meatballs
Scoop out a small amount of the meatball mixture and roll it between your palms to form a small ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, making sure to keep the meatballs a consistent size for even cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
Step 4: Finish Cooking in Sauce
Add your favorite tomato sauce to the skillet, making sure the meatballs are completely submerged. Cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the meatballs and sauce over your choice of pasta or with a side of crusty Italian bread. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Now that you have the secret recipe for Nonna's Italian meatballs, it's time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! With its rich history and irresistible flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Buon appetito!
