Skip links

The Best Italian Meatball Recipe

Join us on a adventure as we master the art of creating the perfect meatball. Today we’re excited to share with you the secrets behind the Best Italian Meatball Recipe that will satisfy your cravings.

Envision succulent and tender meatballs, expertly seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices gently simmered in a delectable tomato sauce bursting with flavor. This recipe isn’t any meatball creation; it’s a healthier rendition of the beloved Italian classic ensuring all the taste without any guilt.

Whether you’re aiming to impress your loved ones at a family gathering or looking to elevate your meal preparation skills these meatballs are destined to take stage in your kitchen. So grab your apron. Lets embark on our journey, towards meatball perfection!

Italian meatballs and pasta

 

Our Recipe for The Best Italian Meatball!

To make the meatball recipe you’ll need to choose lean meats and include ingredients that are packed with nutrients and use cooking techniques that minimize the need for extra fats.  Here’s a recipe that combines the flavors of classic cuisine with a healthier twist.

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet, with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a bowl combine the ground meat, pork panko. parmesan cheese, egg, onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, pepper flakes, and water. Mix until all ingredients are just blended—avoid overmixing.
  3. Shape the Meatballs: Use damp hands to shape the mixture into balls that’re 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the baking sheet.
  4. Cook the Meatballs in the Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 25 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and have a golden color.
  5. Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over heat. Add chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent for around 3 4 minutes. Then add minced garlic. Cook for a minute.  Pour in tomato sauce and add Italian herbs to taste. Let it simmer on low heat until meatballs are ready while occasionally stirring.  Add salt and pepper to your liking for seasoning.

After the meatballs are cooked gently mix them with the sauce to ensure they’re coated evenly. [1]

To enjoy the meatballs server them with sauce over wheat spaghetti or noodles. You can also add a garnish of basil or parsley for flavor.

Tips for making the recipe healthier

  • Choose ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat.
  • Use pork panko, whole wheat breadcrumbs, or oats to add fiber and nutrients.
  • Boost the content by adding chopped vegetables such as spinach or zucchini to the meatball mixture.
  • Consider baking or air frying to minimize added fats.
  • Practice portion control by serving a reasonable amount of whole wheat pasta or even better opt for zucchini noodles, as a lower carbohydrate option. [2]

Enjoy the best Italian Meatball recipe!

Read More: Recipes

Related: Nutrition Hub

Best Italian Meatball Recipe

FAQS

What is the secret of a tender meatball?
The key to achieving tender meatballs often lies in using a combination of breadcrumbs and milk to keep the mixture moist. It’s also important to mix the ingredients avoiding overworking the meat.
What are the ingredients in great value Italian style meatballs?
For information about the ingredients in products like Great Value Italian Style Meatballs it’s best to refer to the packaging or check the manufacturers website for details.
What is the secret to firm meatballs?
To ensure firm meatballs it’s important to strike a balance with ingredients like meat binders such as eggs and breadcrumbs. Chilling the meatball mixture before cooking them can also help them hold their shape.
What’s the difference between meatballs and Italian meatballs?
Italian style meatballs typically have flavors thanks to ingredients like garlic, Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese. These elements differentiate them from types of meatballs that may have differing taste profiles.
Is it better to fry or bake Italian meatballs?
Both frying and baking are methods for cooking Italian style meatballs. Baking is generally considered healthier since it requires less oil while frying can result in a more flavorful meatball.
How does Gordon Ramsay cook meatballs?
Gordon Ramsay often utilizes several seasoning ingredients when cooking his famous meatball recipes. He sometimes adds twists by combining types of meats for added flavor depth. When looking for recipes its recommended to refer to his cookbooks or search for information online.

Resources

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10001017/
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9032291/