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The Best Italian Meatball Recipe

These Italian meatballs are a comforting classic! Juicy, flavorful, and perfect with pasta or on their own!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.33 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup lukewarm water
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce:
  • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, salt, egg, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and lukewarm water. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Step 3: Form the mixture into balls, about 2 tablespoons each, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Step 4: Bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  5. Step 5: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add minced garlic, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Step 6: Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low heat.
  7. Step 7: Carefully add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer together for 10-15 minutes.
  8. Step 8: Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese!

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.