Italian Baked Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

Meatballs

The key to making delicious meatballs is selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Ingredients:

• Grated Parmesan cheese (for added flavor)
• Basil leaves (chopped or torn for garnish)
• Panko breadcrumbs (for a lighter coating)

Meatball-Forming Tools:

• A large mixing bowl
• A wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
• Your hands (for shaping the meatballs)
• A baking sheet lined with parchment paper

The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the final result. For the best flavor and texture, use fresh herbs, choose a good-quality ground beef, and don’t overprocess the mixture.

1 pound ground beef

The primary ingredient for this Italian Baked Meatballs Recipe is ground beef, specifically 1 pound of it.

This essential component will be combined with other ingredients to create the meatballs that are a staple in many Italian dishes.

Here’s what you’ll need from the grocery store:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean to fat ratio works best)

The use of 80/20 ground beef is optimal for this recipe as it provides a balance between flavor and texture.

The high lean meat content will ensure that the meatballs remain moist and tender, while the higher fat content will add richness and depth to each bite.

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

The ingredients used in this Italian Baked Meatballs Recipe are listed below:

• Breadcrumbs: This recipe calls for 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, which serves as a binding agent and helps to keep the meat mixture together.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs including oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that adds an authentic Italian flavor to the dish.

• Minced Garlic: Three cloves of garlic are finely minced to add a pungent and aromatic flavor to the meatballs.

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: One cup of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps to bind the ingredients together.

• Egg: One egg is used as a binding agent to help hold the meat mixture together.

• Ground Beef: Two pounds of ground beef is used as the main ingredient in this recipe, providing protein and texture to the meatballs.

• Salt: A pinch of salt is added to enhance the flavor of the other ingredients.

The breadcrumbs play a crucial role in this recipe by:

• Providing structure and texture to the meatballs.

• Helping to bind the ingredients together.

• Absorbing excess moisture from the other ingredients, resulting in a more tender final product.

When using breadcrumbs, it’s essential to note that they should be dry and fine. You can toast them in a pan or oven to remove any moisture before adding them to the recipe.

1 egg

An egg serves as a crucial binding agent in many baked goods and meat recipes, including the Italian Baked Meatballs.

In this specific recipe, one egg plays a significant role in holding the meat mixture together, adding moisture and richness to the finished product.

The egg also helps to distribute the seasonings and spices evenly throughout the meat mixture, ensuring that each bite has the perfect balance of flavors.

When using an egg in this recipe, it’s essential to note that raw eggs can pose a risk of salmonella poisoning. To minimize this risk, you can either use pasteurized eggs or make sure the eggs are handled and stored properly.

Additionally, be aware that overmixing the meat mixture when adding the egg can lead to tough, dense meatballs. It’s best to mix the ingredients just until they come together in a cohesive mass, taking care not to overprocess the mixture.

The use of one egg is a standard quantity in many meatball recipes. Feel free to experiment with different amounts or types of eggs (such as duck or quail) to create unique flavor profiles and textures.

When choosing an egg for this recipe, consider using a high-quality, fresh egg from a reputable source. The fresher the egg, the more reliable it will be in holding the meat mixture together during baking.

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Parmesan cheese plays a vital role in adding depth and richness to various dishes, including the Italian Baked Meatballs Recipe.

The Parmesan cheese used in this recipe should be fresh and high-quality to ensure it adds a distinctive flavor and texture.

The 1/4 cup measurement of grated Parmesan cheese is essential as it provides just the right amount of salty flavor without overpowering the other ingredients in the meatballs.

Grated Parmesan cheese helps to bind the ingredients together while also providing a burst of umami taste that complements the beef and pork mixture perfectly.

The grated texture of the Parmesan cheese allows it to distribute evenly throughout the meatball mixture, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Parmesan cheese has been aged for at least six months to develop its characteristic sharpness and nutty undertones that add a complexity to the dish.

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

The ingredients used in this Italian Baked Meatballs recipe are crucial to achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

Pantry Staples

1. 1 pound ground beef
2. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
3. 1 egg
4. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
5. 1/2 teaspoon salt
6. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
7. 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
8. 1/4 teaspoon dried basil

Parsley and Fresh Herbs

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

Marinara Sauce

This Italian Baked Meatballs recipe uses homemade marinara sauce made with:

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Dairy and Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

This comprehensive list of ingredients ensures that your Italian Baked Meatballs will be bursting with flavor and have the perfect texture.

2 cloves garlic, minced

The ingredients used in an Italian baked meatballs recipe are crucial to achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Below is a list of the essential ingredients required for this dish:

Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (see below for details)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Pantry:

• Basil leaves for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
• Crispy breadcrumbs or chopped parsley for topping (optional)

Instructions for mincing 2 cloves of garlic:

To mince the 2 cloves of garlic required for this recipe, follow these steps:

1. Choose fresh and firm garlic cloves.

2. Peel the garlic clove to remove any papery skin, taking care not to bruise or crush the delicate flesh underneath.

3. Hold a chef’s knife at an angle over a cutting board and position the peeled garlic clove so that it is aligned with the blade of the knife.

4. Gently rock the knife back and forth, applying gentle pressure, to finely mince the garlic into small pieces.

5. Continue mincing until you have achieved your desired texture, taking care not to over-process or create a paste-like consistency.

Salt and pepper to taste

The key to elevating an Italian Baked Meatballs Recipe lies not only in the technique used to prepare the meat mixture, but also in the selection and balance of ingredients that complement its rich flavors.

For instance, one crucial component is salt and pepper, which serves as a fundamental seasoning that enhances the overall taste experience without overpowering it. These two staples are often referred to collectively as “salt and pepper to taste,” signifying their importance in balancing flavors but also leaving room for personal preference and ingredient-specific considerations.

When using salt and pepper to season Italian Baked Meatballs, it’s crucial to consider the other ingredients involved in the dish. The recipe typically includes a mixture of minced meats (beef, pork, or a combination thereof), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, fresh basil, and sometimes tomato sauce.

The salt used is often kosher or sea salt, chosen for its coarser texture that doesn’t dissolve quickly in the meat mixture. This helps distribute the salt evenly throughout the meatballs as they cook, preventing any clumps from forming.

Pepper, whether black or white, adds a subtle depth of flavor and aroma. Like salt, it’s typically used generously but with care to avoid overpowering the other ingredients. Some recipes call for freshly ground pepper, which offers an even fresher and more intense peppery taste compared to pre-ground pepper.

It’s worth noting that while salt and pepper are essential seasonings in many Italian Baked Meatballs Recipes, other spices like oregano or basil might be used in certain variations. However, their addition should complement the flavor profile rather than overpowering it.

In general, using high-quality ingredients, including the type of salt and pepper specified, contributes significantly to a more satisfying taste experience. Whether you prefer a light dusting of salt and pepper or a more generous application, always remember that the key is balance—balancing flavors so each bite tastes as intended without overwhelming any single ingredient.

Instructions

Preparation

In order to execute this recipe for Italian Baked Meatballs effectively, preparation is crucial to guarantee that each component turns out delicious and perfectly cooked.

The initial step involves preparing the ingredients needed for the meatballs, including ground beef or a combination of beef and pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and chopped fresh parsley.

Mix the meat mixture well, taking care not to overwork it. This is crucial as it can cause the meatballs to become dense and tough.

Transfer the mixture onto a flat surface and shape into small balls, around 1 ½ inches in diameter. It’s advisable to make them uniform so that they cook evenly.

In a separate dish, mix together the marinara sauce, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper for seasoning. This mixture will serve as the topping for the meatballs during baking.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). While waiting for it to preheat, arrange the shaped meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer without overcrowding them.

Dust the top of each meatball with grated Parmesan cheese. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that complements the overall dish perfectly.

Once your oven is ready, place the baking sheet into it and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through. The time may vary based on the size of your meatballs.

After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush each meatball with a little marinara sauce mixed with olive oil, leaving some space between them for even cooking.

Return to the oven and finish off the last five minutes. This ensures that the meatballs are well-cooked and have a nice glaze of tomato sauce on top.

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving warm. Italian Baked Meatballs is best served with pasta, as a topping for pizza or subs, in a sub sandwich, over mashed potatoes, as an appetizer, or even as a snack with some crackers on the side.

This recipe provides a detailed approach to making delicious and tender Italian baked meatballs that are sure to impress your guests.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

To prepare this Italian baked meatball recipe, it’s essential to start with proper oven preparation.

The first step involves preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature setting will help ensure that the meatballs are cooked evenly and at a precise level of doneness.

Preheating the oven allows the heating elements to reach their optimal operating temperature, which helps to distribute heat consistently throughout the cooking area.

This consistent heat distribution is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor in your Italian baked meatballs. A perfectly cooked meatball should be tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, with a rich, savory flavor that’s enhanced by the Maillard reaction – a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that occurs when food is cooked at high temperatures.

Now that your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C), you’re ready to move on to the next step in preparing this Italian baked meatball recipe.

To prepare the meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense and tough.

Scoop up small portions of the mixture and shape them into balls. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each meatball.

Once your meatballs are prepared, you’re ready to bake them in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 18-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.

To serve, place the Italian baked meatballs on a serving platter or individual plates. You can garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.

The first step to making delicious Italian baked meatballs involves gathering and combining a variety of essential ingredients. To begin, preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). While the oven is warming up, it’s time to prepare the mixing bowl where all the ingredients will come together.

Start by adding one pound of ground beef to the bowl. Ensure that the meat is at room temperature and not cold from the refrigerator, as this can affect the consistency of the mixture. You may want to remove the meat from its packaging and place it on a clean surface for ease of handling.

Add half a cup of breadcrumbs to the bowl with the ground beef. Breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients together and contribute texture to the final dish. Choose plain breadcrumbs without any added seasonings or spices, as you will be adding those separately later.

Mix in one egg into the bowl with the meat and breadcrumbs. The egg serves multiple purposes: it helps hold the mixture together, adds moisture, and contributes protein.

Add a quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. This salty, nutty cheese enhances the flavor profile of the meatballs and provides an extra burst of umami taste. You can use either freshly grated or store-bought Parmesan – both work well in this recipe.

Mix in half a cup of chopped fresh parsley into the bowl with the other ingredients. The bright, herbaceous flavor of parsley balances out the richness of the meat and cheese, adding depth to the dish. Be sure to chop the parsley finely so it distributes evenly throughout the mixture.

Season the mixture with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Taste the mixture as you go, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. Remember that the flavor will intensify during baking, so don’t overdo it on the seasonings just yet.

Now it’s time to add any additional flavors you like. For Italian baked meatballs, classic additions include one minced garlic clove and a pinch of dried oregano. Mix these in gently, taking care not to overmix the ingredients.

Once all the ingredients are well combined, use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs, depending on their size and how tightly you pack them together.

Transfer the meatballs to a baking dish lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. You can also use a silicone mat if you have one – it will make the job even easier!

Drizzle the tops of the meatballs with a little bit of olive oil and place them in the preheated oven. Bake the meatballs for 18-20 minutes or until they’re nicely browned on the outside and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and gently flip the meatballs over to ensure even cooking. Return them to the oven for the remaining 3-5 minutes or until they’re done to your liking.

Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully transfer them to a serving platter using a slotted spoon or tongs. Serve hot with your favorite pasta sauce and enjoy! You can also store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for later use.

Wet hands with water to handle meat mixture.

To prepare the Italian Baked Meatballs, it’s essential to handle the meat mixture with clean and sanitized hands.

Before proceeding, make sure your hands are free from any bacteria or contaminants that may cause foodborne illnesses.

Washing your hands with warm water is an effective way to remove dirt, oils, and other impurities from the skin surface.

Step-by-Step Guide: Washing Hands

1. Turn on the faucet to warm up the water. The ideal temperature for washing hands should be between 100°F (38°C) and 110°F (43.3°C).
2. Pour a sufficient amount of water over your hands, making sure to cover all surfaces.
3. Apply enough soap or hand wash to create a rich lather on the skin surface. Choose a gentle and fragrance-free cleanser suitable for washing hands.
4. Massage the soapy mixture onto your palms, backs of hands, between fingers, under nails, and wrists in a circular motion.

After massaging the soap, rinse your hands thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining residue.

Pat dry your hands using a clean towel or air dryer. This helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps your skin moisturized.

Finishing Touches

Baking and Serving

The final stage of creating this delectable Italian Baked Meatballs recipe involves adding the finishing touches, baking, and serving to bring out the full flavor and texture of these mouth-watering meatballs.

Finishing touches refer to the last minute preparations that enhance the presentation and taste of your dish. For this Italian Baked Meatballs recipe, some suggested finishing touches include garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves, which not only add a burst of freshness but also contribute to the appetizing visual appeal.

Another idea for adding a finishing touch is to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of each meatball. This not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also provides a nice textural contrast to the softness of the meatballs.

On the other hand, baking is where you put your Italian Baked Meatballs into the oven and let the magic happen. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the formed meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving about an inch of space between each meatball to allow for even cooking.

Bake the Italian Baked Meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). It’s essential to not overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can lead to uneven cooking. You may need to bake them in batches depending on their size and number.

Once your Italian Baked Meatballs are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving dish or individual plates. This resting time helps any juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite more tender and flavorful.

Finally, serve your Italian Baked Meatballs hot with your favorite marinara sauce and some crusty Italian bread on the side for dipping. You can also add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or zucchini to round out a well-rounded meal.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of your homemade Italian Baked Meatballs in all their glory!

Form into meatballs and place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

To complete the Italian Baked Meatballs Recipe, it’s time to add the finishing touches by transforming the mixture into meatballs and placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

The first step in this process is to take the combined mixture of ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. You will need to use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.

It’s essential to handle the meat gently to avoid compacting it too much. This can lead to dense and heavy meatballs that might not cook evenly.

As you shape each meatball, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each meatball to allow for even cooking and prevent them from sticking together during the baking process.

Make sure to leave any excess moisture from your hands behind, as this can cause the meatballs to steam instead of brown in the oven.

Once all the meatballs are formed and placed on the prepared baking sheet, you’re ready to move on to the next step, which involves drizzling them with olive oil and sprinkling with breadcrumbs before baking in a preheated oven.

This will help create a deliciously crispy exterior while locking in the flavors and moisture of the meatballs. The result will be tender, juicy Italian-style baked meatballs that are perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course.

Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18 minutes, then broil for an additional 23 minutes or until browned.

The final touches to this delectable Italian Baked Meatballs Recipe are where the magic happens, elevating the dish from delicious to truly unforgettable.

To start, drizzle a generous amount of high-quality olive oil over the meatballs in their baking dish. This will not only add moisture and flavor but also help create a beautifully golden-brown crust.

Next, place the baking dish under your oven’s broiler for an additional 23 minutes or until the meatballs are nicely browned. Keep a watchful eye on them during this time, as the browning process can be unpredictable, and you want to ensure they’re perfectly cooked through without becoming too dark.

During the last few minutes of the broiling time, keep an eye out for any signs that the meatballs may be overcooking. If you notice the tops starting to darken or become unevenly browned, remove them from the oven immediately and serve as is, rather than risking further browning.

Once removed from the oven, let the meatballs rest in their pan for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows any juices that have been released during cooking to redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite juicy and flavorful.

The result will be a succulent and savory Italian Baked Meatballs dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Buon appetito!

Serve hot with your favorite pasta sauce.

The final touches to this Italian baked meatball recipe involve bringing everything together for a satisfying and flavorful dish. To do so, carefully place the finished meatballs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Once your meatballs have cooled slightly, transfer them to a large serving platter or individual plates, depending on how you plan to present this delicious Italian baked meatball dish.

Serve hot with your favorite pasta sauce, which can be homemade or store-bought. Allow your guests to help themselves by placing the sauce in a separate bowl or directly on top of the meatballs for an interactive dining experience.

Consider garnishing the platter with some extra parsley or basil leaves, adding a fresh and fragrant touch to each serving. This Italian baked meatball recipe is sure to become a new family favorite, enjoyed by everyone at the table!