Meatballs Italiano
Juicy, flavorful meatballs cooked in rich spaghetti sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, with savory Parmesan and herbs enhancing every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, water, 1/2 cup of bread crumbs, chopped onion, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Measure out 1/4 cup of the mixture, then form into a ball.
- Roll each meatball in the remaining bread crumbs to coat.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture and bread crumbs.
- Set aside the formed meatballs.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil until hot.
- Add the meatballs and brown on all sides, about 15 minutes.
- Drain excess oil from the skillet.
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, add spaghetti sauce and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, add the meatballs to the sauce, and simmer covered for about 20 minutes.
- Stir every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. To enhance the texture, you can add a splash of milk or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. Ensure the meatballs are well-formed so they hold together while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over a bed of al dente spaghetti for a classic presentation. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread make for a delightful meal. Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. This recipe also pairs beautifully with No Cook Noodles Lasagna for a hearty Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs Italiano contains roughly 195 calories, with 7g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1108mg per serving (48% 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 make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! These meatballs can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day or frozen for longer storage. Just ensure they are cooked through before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.
What type of sauce is best for these meatballs?
A classic marinara or spaghetti sauce works wonderfully with these meatballs. You can use store-bought or homemade sauce, depending on your preference. For a twist, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
How can I ensure my meatballs don’t fall apart while cooking?
To prevent meatballs from falling apart, make sure to mix the ingredients just until combined without overworking the meat. Form them tightly and allow them to rest before cooking. Browning them in oil first helps them hold their shape when simmering in sauce.
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).