Best Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

These best meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. Made with a mix of ground beef and pork, they offer a classic taste that pairs wonderfully with pasta or as a hearty appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 lb. ground pork
• 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands, being careful not to overmix.
2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a cutting board or plate.
3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pan fry the meatballs, turning frequently, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 15 minutes. Check doneness by cutting into a meatball to ensure there is no pink inside.
4. Step 4: Transfer the cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, soak the breadcrumbs in a little milk before mixing.
• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Try adding grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
• If you prefer, bake the meatballs in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20 minutes instead of pan frying.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. You can also freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use only beef or only pork for these meatballs?

Yes, you can use just ground beef or ground pork, but combining both adds better flavor and texture.

How do I prevent meatballs from falling apart while cooking?

Mix gently without overworking the meat, and use an egg and breadcrumbs to help bind. Cooking on medium heat and turning carefully also helps maintain their shape.

Best Meatballs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 57 reviews

This Best Meatballs Recipe features a delicious blend of ground beef and pork combined with breadcrumbs, egg, onion, and fresh parsley, then pan-fried to golden perfection. These juicy and flavorful meatballs are perfect as a main dish or served with your favorite sauce and pasta.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 meatballs 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatball Mixture

• 1/2 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 lb. ground pork
• 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix together the ground beef, ground pork, dry breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, Italian parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls and arrange them on a clean cutting board or plate.
3. Pan Fry: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are evenly browned on all sides and cooked through, about 15 minutes. To check doneness, cut into one meatball and ensure there is no pink inside.
4. Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked meatballs and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sauce, pasta, or as desired.

Notes

• Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
• Ensure meatballs are cooked internally with no pink for food safety.
• You can add garlic or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor if desired.
• Serve with marinara sauce and spaghetti for a classic meal.
• Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Keywords: meatballs, ground beef, ground pork, Italian recipe, pan-fried meatballs, easy dinner, classic meatballs