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Meatball Recipe





Perfect Meatball Recipe

Description

This meatball recipe is a flavorful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether served over pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with delicious seasonings. What sets this recipe apart is the perfect blend of beef and pork, combined with fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of parmesan cheese. These meatballs are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making them a family favorite.

Ingredients – Meatball Recipe

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions Step-by-Step for Making Meatball Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

  1. Combine the Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, fresh parsley, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
  2. Shape the Meatballs:
    • Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet or plate.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

  1. Fry the Meatballs:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the meatballs, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
    • In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.

Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

  1. Simmer the Meatballs in the Sauce:
    • Add the browned meatballs to the simmering sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs cook in the sauce for about 30 minutes. This allows the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce and ensures they are cooked through.
  2. Serve:
    • Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them hot over pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Tips and Variations for Meatball Recipe

Tips for Perfect Meatball Recipe

  • Mix Gently:
    • Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture, as this can result in dense meatballs. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
  • Uniform Size:
    • Try to make all the meatballs the same size to ensure even cooking.
  • Rest Before Cooking:
    • Let the formed meatballs rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better when frying.

Variations

  • Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs:
    • For a fun twist, stuff each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella cheese before cooking.
  • Turkey Meatballs:
    • Substitute the beef and pork with ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • Spicy Meatballs:
    • Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicier version.
  • Herb Variations:
    • Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or fresh basil to change up the flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free:
    • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

Preparation and Cooking Time – Meatball Recipe

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 20g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Curiosities and Historical Facts about Meatball Recipe

Origins of Meatballs

Meatballs are a beloved dish in many cultures, each with its own unique twist. While the exact origin of meatballs is difficult to pinpoint, they are believed to date back to ancient times. Early recipes for meatballs can be found in Roman cookbooks, where they were made using a variety of meats and spices.

Evolution of the Dish

In the Middle Ages, meatballs became popular in Europe, particularly in Italy and Sweden. Italian meatballs, or “polpette,” are typically smaller and often served as part of a larger dish, such as in soups or with pasta. Swedish meatballs, known as “köttbullar,” are often served with a creamy gravy and lingonberry sauce.

Cultural Significance

Meatballs have significant cultural importance in many countries. In Italy, they are a staple in Southern cuisine, often made with a mixture of beef and pork and served in a rich tomato sauce. In Sweden, meatballs are a traditional dish served during holidays and special occasions. In the United States, meatballs gained popularity through Italian-American cuisine, particularly as part of the iconic spaghetti and meatballs dish.

Interesting Facts

  • Global Variations:
    • Meatballs are enjoyed worldwide, with each culture adding its own flavors and ingredients. In Asia, for example, meatballs are often made with fish or seafood and served in soups or as street food.
  • Versatile Dish:
    • Meatballs can be made with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, turkey, lamb, and even vegetarian options using lentils or beans.
  • Popular Comfort Food:
    • Meatballs are often considered comfort food, beloved for their hearty and satisfying nature.

Modern Uses – Meatball Recipe

Today, meatballs are enjoyed in various forms. They are a popular appetizer at parties, often served with toothpicks and dipping sauces. Meatballs are also a favorite addition to pasta dishes, sandwiches, and even pizzas. With the rise of global cuisine, many cooks experiment with different spices, herbs, and ingredients to create unique and flavorful meatball recipes.

The Science Behind the Dish

The key to perfect meatballs lies in the balance of meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. The breadcrumbs help absorb moisture and keep the meatballs tender, while the egg acts as a binder to hold everything together. Frying the meatballs before simmering them in sauce adds a delicious caramelized flavor and ensures they stay intact during cooking. The combination of beef and pork provides a rich, savory taste that is enhanced by the addition of garlic, onion, and herbs.