Meatballs, a timeless culinary delight, offer a savory indulgence cherished across cultures and cuisines. Crafted from a harmonious blend of ground meat, breadcrumbs, aromatic herbs, and flavorful spices, meatballs boast a versatile nature that lends itself to a myriad of dishes, from classic spaghetti and meatballs to hearty sandwiches, appetizers, and beyond. The process of forming these savory spheres of goodness is a labor of love, where ground meat is gently combined with seasonings such as garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring each bite is infused with layers of savory complexity. Whether rolled by hand or shaped with an ice cream scoop, each meatball carries with it a sense of tradition and culinary craftsmanship. Once formed, these savory orbs are cooked to perfection, whether gently simmered in a rich tomato sauce, baked until golden and caramelized, or grilled for a smoky charred exterior. The result is a symphony of flavors and textures, with tender meat enveloped in a savory crust, ready to tantalize taste buds and evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. Whether enjoyed as the star of a comforting family dinner or shared with friends at a festive gathering, meatballs hold a special place in the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide, embodying the essence of home-cooked comfort and timeless culinary tradition.
Ingredients:
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1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef, pork, and/or veal)
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup milk
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1 large egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease with olive oil.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Shape the Meatballs:
- Scoop out portions of the meat mixture and roll them between your hands to form meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake the Meatballs:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside. You can also check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of a meatball; it should register 160°F (71°C).
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve the meatballs on their own as an appetizer, with pasta and marinara sauce, or in sandwiches or subs.
Additional Tips:
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For extra flavor, you can sauté finely chopped onions and garlic in olive oil until softened, then add them to the meat mixture before shaping the meatballs.
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If you prefer a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
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To make the meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or rolled oats.
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These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
With their tender texture and savory flavor, these homemade meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them as a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion!
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