Lillian'S Grandmother'S Meatballs
Lillian's Grandmother's Meatballs are hearty, flavorful bites made from a mixture of pork, beef, or veal, seasoned with garlic, onion, and Parmesan. Pan-fried to a golden crust and simmered in a rich gravy, they are perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients—meat, eggs, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, a drop of milk, garlic, onion, and pepper—together in a bowl.
- Keep your hands wet and shape the mixture into dome-like meatballs that are not too large or too round.
- If the mixture feels too dense, add a little more milk; if too soft, add more bread crumbs.
- Heat a very hot frying pan with oil (preferably olive oil) and fry the meatballs at low flame until golden brown on the outside, but do not cook them completely.
- Remove meatballs from the pan and set aside.
- Add the meatballs to gravy during the last hour of cooking; continue to simmer.
- Skim any fat from the frying pan.
- Add a little water or red wine, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and mix with any meat particles left in the pan.
- Add a dash of sugar, and simmer covered for a few minutes to reduce tartness.
- Pour this gravy over the meatballs and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the meatball mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano works as a great substitute. To keep meatballs moist, ensure your hands are slightly damp while shaping them. When frying, use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking and allow for even cooking. If you're looking for more Italian recipes, check out Joanie's Pizzelles for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs pair wonderfully with spaghetti or polenta for a hearty meal. Serve with a side of Green Beans Tuscany Style for a burst of color and flavor. For a complete Italian feast, consider starting with Mary’s Meatless Lasagna as an appetizer. Top the meatballs with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for an elevated presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of gravy or a little water to keep them moist. You can also microwave them, covered, for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure they do not dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lillian'S Grandmother'S Meatballs contains roughly 484 calories, with 55g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (109% of the Daily Value), iron (82% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 20g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, but they may require additional seasoning to enhance flavor. Keep an eye on cooking times as well, as lean meats tend to cook quicker than beef or pork.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or ground oats. Ensure that your Parmesan cheese and any additional seasonings are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or with a side of roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, pair them with a fresh salad or a side of steamed broccoli for a nutritious balance.
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).