Italian Meat Balls With Sauce
Juicy Italian meatballs with rich tomato sauce, bursting with herbs, Parmesan, and garlic, perfect for hearty family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs.
- Broil the meatballs under the broiler until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a mix of ground beef and pork for added flavor. If you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute with additional dry parsley. Consider adding grated onion for moisture and sweetness. Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking. If you're short on time, you can skip broiling and bake them instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Italian meatballs with a side of spaghetti and a generous ladle of Spaghetti Sauce(Fat-Free) for a classic dish. They also pair beautifully with crusty bread and a fresh green salad. For a twist, try them with Pasticcio Lasagnette(Messy Lasagna) as a hearty meal option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover them to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet with a splash of sauce over low heat to keep them juicy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Meat Balls With Sauce contains roughly 1027 calories, with 78g protein, 158g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (436% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (234% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2673mg per serving (116% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the meatballs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped meatballs before cooking. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with Italian meatballs?
Italian meatballs are versatile and pair well with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or a sub sandwich. For a lighter option, serve them over a bed of zucchini noodles or alongside a fresh salad. They also make a great appetizer for gatherings.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
To ensure meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 160°F. Alternatively, cut one open to check that it's no longer pink inside. Browning on the outside also indicates they're well-cooked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).