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Best Ever Italian Meatballs Recipe

Discover the secret to melt-in-your-mouth Italian meatballs! This authentic recipe, passed down from an Italian Nonna, features a unique cooking method that unlocks unparalleled flavor. Instead of pre-cooking, the meatballs simmer gently in a rich tomato sauce, absorbing all its deliciousness. Made a day ahead, the flavors deepen overnight, and any excess fat rises to the top for easy removal. Prepare for an explosion of taste – these meatballs are truly unforgettable!

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 115 mins
Calories 136.4 kcal
Protein 22g
Rating 4.1 (15 Reviews)
Best Ever Italian Meatballs

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Best Ever Italian Meatballs

  • Lean Ground Beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Bell Pepper
  • Fresh Parmesan Cheese
  • Italian Breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Cayenne Pepper
  • Milk
  • Worcestershire Sauce
  • Fresh Oregano
  • Fresh Basil
  • Fresh Parsley
  • Anise Seeds

How to Make Best Ever Italian Meatballs

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine all ingredients until just mixed. Do not overmix.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. Carefully add the meatballs to your simmering sauce (recipe not included, but a simple marinara works wonderfully!).
  4. Resist the urge to stir! Let the meatballs simmer undisturbed for at least 25 minutes to allow them to firm up.
  5. Reduce heat to low to prevent scorching. Continue simmering gently, ensuring the sauce doesn't boil rapidly.
  6. Simmer until the sauce has reached your desired consistency and the meatballs are cooked through (about 75-90 minutes total simmering time).
  7. Once cooked, remove from heat and let stand for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even further.
  8. Refrigerate overnight to allow fat to rise and the flavors to fully develop. Skim off any hardened fat before reheating and serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

15 g

Sugar

3g

Fat

17g

Carbs

1g

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Time To Make Course Preparation Main Dish Dietary Low Carb Low In Something 4 Hours Or Less Meatballs