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Best Meatballs Recipe

4.9 from 137 reviews

This Best Meatballs Recipe features a classic combination of ground beef and pork blended with breadcrumbs, egg, onion, and fresh parsley. These juicy, tender meatballs are pan-fried to golden perfection, making them perfect for serving with pasta, in sandwiches, or as a savory appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Mixture

  • 1/2 lb. ground beef
  • 1/2 lb. ground pork
  • 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking

  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil

Instructions

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, dry breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, Italian flat-leaf parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
  2. Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls and arrange them on a cutting board or plate, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
  3. Heat Oil: Place a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, allowing it to warm up sufficiently for frying.
  4. Pan-fry Meatballs: Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook them, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and completely cooked through, about 15 minutes. To check doneness, cut one meatball open to ensure there is no pink in the center.
  5. Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot as desired.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep the texture tender.
  • Use fresh parsley for better flavor.
  • Ensure meatballs are uniform in size to cook evenly.
  • Meatballs can be served with pasta, on their own, or in sandwiches.
  • Can be reheated in a skillet or oven without drying out.

Keywords: meatballs, ground beef, ground pork, Italian recipe, pan-fried meatballs, classic meatballs