Description
Tender, juicy, and full of flavor—these Grandma’s Italian Meatballs are a true family favorite. Made with simple ingredients and simmered in rich tomato sauce, they’re perfect for pasta night or Sunday dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20) – juicy texture
- 1 lb ground pork – adds richness
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – helps bind
- 2 large eggs – holds everything together
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – savory flavor
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic punch
- ½ cup onion, finely grated – softens into meatballs
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – freshness
- 1 tsp dried oregano – classic Italian flavor
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for browning
- 4 cups marinara sauce – homemade or store-bought
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix).
- Roll the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides (they don’t need to cook through).
- Transfer meatballs into a pot with marinara sauce.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 30–35 minutes, until fully cooked and tender.
- Serve over spaghetti, in subs, or with crusty bread.
Notes
- Use a mix of beef and pork for the best texture.
- Wet your hands when rolling meatballs to prevent sticking.
- Simmer slowly in sauce instead of baking for the juiciest results.
- For lighter meatballs, substitute some beef with ground turkey.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes