James Italian Meatballs
Juicy and flavorful Italian-style meatballs combining beef, pork, and veal, seasoned with Parmesan and Italian bread crumbs. Perfect for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer, these tender meatballs offer a savory bite that appeals to meat lovers and family dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Combine ground beef, ground pork, ground veal, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian bread crumbs, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh ingredients, particularly the ground meats. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for the pork or veal. To enhance flavor, add minced garlic and chopped parsley. You can also use seasoned bread crumbs for added taste. If the mixture feels too wet, add more bread crumbs until firm enough to form meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs alongside spaghetti for a classic Italian meal, or pair with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a delightful dinner. They also make a great appetizer when served with marinara sauce for dipping. For a twist, try them in a meatball sub topped with melted cheese, or serve with Polish Lasagna for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of James Italian Meatballs contains roughly 502 calories, with 29g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 874mg per serving (38% 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 use only one type of meat for these meatballs?
Yes, you can use just one type of meat, such as ground beef or pork, if you prefer. However, combining meats gives a richer flavor and varied texture, which is traditional in Italian recipes.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile! They pair well with spaghetti, but you can also serve them in a meatball sub or alongside roasted vegetables. Consider a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form them a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator before baking. Alternatively, cook them ahead and freeze for easy reheating later.
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).