Italian Meatballs
Try this Italian Meatballs recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Italian Meatballs recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 egg
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 whole bay leaf
- 1 cup 1% milk
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves finely minced garlic
- 1 whole chopped onion
- 2 28 oz cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 6 oz can tomato paste
- 1 6 oz water i fill the paste can with the water
- 1/2 tsp ground fennel seed
- 1 tsp basil leaves
- 2 1/2 pounds 90% lean ground beef
- 2 cups whole wheat seasoned breadcrumbs
- Carbohydrate 9.10989562625522 g
- Cholesterol 1496.17520252803 mg
- Fat 235.488141882304 g
- Fiber 0.984868718779935 g
- Protein 471.894677512206 g
- Saturated Fat 96.5510011907621 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1473g)
- Sodium 2140.4965923203 mg
- Sugar 8.12502690747528 g
- Trans Fat 28.8907006580105 g
- Calories 4176 calories
Step-by-step
- Marinara Sauce: In a large pot, add 1 tsp. of olive oil and heat over a medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and saute about 5 minutes. Then add garlic, continue to saute about 3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, water, bay leaf, ground fennel, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Let that simmer on a low heat while you make the Italian Meatballs.
- In a bowl, combine the ground beef, whole wheat seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, parmesan cheese, egg, egg whites, minced garlic, onion powder, salt and pepper to taste.
- Use your very clean hands to combine the ingredients until well blended and then form into small meatballs about 2 inches round.
- Add the meatballs to the marinara sauce, cover and allow to simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Then gently stir, being careful not to break any meatballs.
- Allow to continue to simmer, stirring occasionally for about 45 - 60 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve over pasta!
My Favorite Comfort Food: Italian Meatballs
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a monumental task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the never-ending cycle of laundry. So, when it comes to dinner, I crave simplicity, flavor, and most importantly, something the whole family will enjoy. That's where my go-to recipe, Italian Meatballs, comes in.
This isn't just any meatball recipe; it's a hug in a bowl, a taste of home, and a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time for a little culinary comfort. The rich, savory sauce clings perfectly to the tender meatballs, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The aroma alone is enough to fill the house with warmth and anticipation, transforming even the most rushed weeknight into a moment of cherished family time.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No exotic ingredients, no complicated techniques – just a few basic pantry staples combined to create something truly magical. I love using whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber and a slightly nutty flavor. The parmesan cheese lends a sharp, salty bite that complements the richness of the ground beef perfectly. And the secret ingredient? A touch of love. I believe that the heart you put into your cooking shines through in the final dish, and this recipe is a testament to that belief.
The process itself is surprisingly therapeutic. The act of gently rolling the meatballs, feeling the smooth texture of the seasoned beef between my fingers, is a calming ritual. It's a moment of mindfulness amidst the often-frantic energy of my day. The simmering sauce, bubbling away on the stove, creates a soothing backdrop to my evening routine, a comforting hum that signals relaxation and the promise of a delicious meal.
Once the meatballs are cooked through, the aroma of the simmering sauce is intoxicating. A symphony of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs fills the kitchen, painting a vibrant picture of culinary bliss. This isn't just dinner; it's an experience. It's a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the simple pleasures in life.
Serving the meatballs over a bed of freshly cooked pasta elevates this dish to new heights. The creamy texture of the pasta contrasts beautifully with the hearty meatballs and tangy sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This is a meal that nourishes not only the body but also the soul, providing warmth, comfort, and a feeling of contentment.
More than just a recipe, this Italian Meatball dish is a testament to the power of simple cooking, creating moments of joy and connection around the family table. It’s a recipe that's been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own personal touch and memories to the dish. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a legacy.
So, the next time you find yourself craving comfort food, I encourage you to try this recipe. Let the aroma fill your kitchen, and let the simple act of cooking transport you to a place of peace and warmth. And most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite with your loved ones. This recipe is a reminder that the most cherished memories often stem from the simplest of pleasures—a family gathered around a table, sharing a delicious, home-cooked meal.
This isn't just a meal; it's a memory in the making. Enjoy!
