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The Best Italian Meatballs Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

These Italian meatballs are a perfect combination of ground beef and Italian sausage mixed with fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, baked to juicy perfection. Ideal as a hearty appetizer, a meatball sub filling, or served with pasta and sauce.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 20-30 meatballs (6 servings)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 3/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley (curly or flat)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 eggs
  • Splash of milk
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef, Italian sausage, Italian breadcrumbs, shredded Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, eggs, a splash of milk, and salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything evenly without overworking the meat.
  3. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
  4. Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until an internal meat thermometer inserted into the center of a meatball reads 160°F (71°C), indicating they are cooked through and safe to eat.
  5. Serve: Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and enjoy immediately. These meatballs serve perfectly with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as part of an appetizer platter.

Notes

  • You can substitute some or all of the Italian sausage with ground pork for a milder flavor.
  • Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dried for a softer texture.
  • Make sure not to overmix the meat to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Meatballs can be made ahead and frozen before baking; bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian