Baked Italian Meatballs

This recipe is my little way of bringing the world’s flavors into my kitchen. When I think of Italian meatballs, I’m transported to bustling piazzas, fragrant kitchens, and cozy family gatherings. These tender, juicy meatballs are a breeze to make—no messy frying required! Instead, we simply bake them until golden perfection while you enjoy the delightful aromas wafting through your home. With a mix of ground beef and pork, combined with fresh herbs and cheese, each bite bursts with comfort and flavor. Let’s gather our ingredients and create a dish that feels like a warm hug from Italy! To elevate this dish further, consider pairing the meatballs with a hearty sauce or serving them over a bed of al dente pasta. For those looking to expand their culinary repertoire, I’ll also share some valuable italian pastina cooking tips to ensure your pasta turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, these meatballs will surely bring a touch of Italy to your table.

What is Baked Italian Meatballs?

Chef John’s Italian Meatballs are a wonderfully simple and delicious dish that skips the messy step of frying by baking the meatballs instead. This makes them not only easier to prepare but also healthier! The secret to their amazing flavor lies in the combination of ground beef and pork, along with fresh ingredients like onions, garlic, and parsley. By soaking the bread crumbs in milk, the meatballs stay moist and tender while they bake to perfection. Once they’re done, you simmer them in your favorite tomato sauce, allowing all those rich flavors to meld together beautifully. With rave reviews from home cooks, these meatballs are a go-to for family dinners, and they’re perfect served over pasta, in a sandwich, or even on their own!

Equipamiento de cocina necesario

• Plancha para hornear
• Papel de aluminio
• Cooking spray
• Cuenco pequeño
• Skillet
• Bol grande
• Rubber spatula
• Horno

Ingredientes

• ⅓ cup plain bread crumbs
• ½ cup milk or beef broth
• 2 cucharadas de aceite de oliva
• 1 cebolla picada
• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1 pound ground pork
• 2 huevos grandes
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
• ¼ bunch fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (substitute with cayenne pepper if preferred)
• Cooking spray

How to Make Baked Italian Meatballs?

• Step 1: Gather all ingredients: ⅓ cup plain bread crumbs, ½ cup milk or beef broth, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 diced onion, 1 pound ground beef, 1 pound ground pork, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ bunch fresh parsley (chopped), 3 crushed cloves garlic, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb seasoning, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
• Step 2: Cover a baking sheet with foil and spray lightly with cooking spray.
• Step 3: Soak ⅓ cup bread crumbs in ½ cup milk in a small bowl for 20 minutes.
• Step 4: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes, then reduce heat to low and cook until very tender, about 15 minutes more.
• Step 5: In a large bowl, gently stir together 1 pound ground beef and 1 pound ground pork.
• Step 6: Add the cooked onions, soaked bread crumb mixture, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ bunch fresh parsley, 3 crushed cloves garlic, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb seasoning, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Mix everything together until combined using a rubber spatula.
• Step 7: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 1 hour.
• Step 8: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
• Step 9: Form the mixture into balls about 1 ½ inches in diameter and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until browned and cooked through. Serve with your favorite tomato sauce. Enjoy!

Algunos consejos

• To keep the meatballs super moist, make sure to soak the bread crumbs in milk for the full 20 minutes before mixing. It really makes a difference!
• Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the mixture for about an hour helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to shape.
• For a little kick, feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes to your taste or even add some grated cheese on top before serving. Yum!

¿Cómo guardar las sobras?

Should you end up with extras, I recommend storing those delicious meatballs in a shallow, airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days, making for a quick meal later on. If you want to keep them longer, flash freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to three months, ready for a busy night!

What to Eat with Baked Italian Meatballs?

If you’re whipping up Chef John’s Italian Meatballs, pair them with a delightful side of roasted veggies and drizzle everything with a light vinaigrette for a fresh touch. You can also serve these juicy meatballs over spaghetti or in a hearty sandwich—it’s a comforting feast that’s sure to impress!

Conclusión

There’s something truly special about Chef John’s Italian Meatballs that just makes cooking feel joyful and rewarding. With their simple preparation, delightful flavors, and tender texture, they’re sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Once you give this recipe a try, you’ll understand why these meatballs are so cherished!

PREGUNTAS FRECUENTES

Can I use a different type of meat or meat alternative for this recipe, and how would that affect the cooking time or texture?

Yes, you can use different meats or meat alternatives! Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness. Texture may change, especially with leaner meats or plant-based options, resulting in a slightly different bite.

Can I use a different type of bread or a gluten-free alternative for the breadcrumbs in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of bread or gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute! Just ensure they are finely ground for best texture.

What baking equipment can I use if I don’t have a baking sheet, and how might that change the cooking time or outcome?

You can use a cast-iron skillet or a glass dish instead of a baking sheet. Cooking times may vary slightly; check for doneness a few minutes earlier. Enjoy your meatballs!

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time and what’s the best way to reheat them without drying them out?

Yes, make them ahead and refrigerate. Reheat gently in sauce on low heat to keep them moist. Enjoy!

5. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan, and how would that impact the flavor and texture of the meatballs?

Yes, you can substitute other cheeses like Pecorino or mozzarella. This will change the flavor—Pecorino is sharper, while mozzarella adds creaminess—but both will still be delicious!