Meatballs are a classic comfort food that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a delicious appetizer, these homemade meatballs are sure to please. Made with a combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, and spices, these meatballs are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 500g ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, salt, black pepper, parsley, and basil. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined.
- Using a scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 12-14 meatballs of about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave some space between them.
- Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
- Serve the meatballs with your favorite sauce and pasta or as a topping for pizza.
Recipe Variations
Vegetarian Meatballs
To make vegetarian meatballs, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or chickpeas. Use the same amount of breadcrumbs and add some grated cheese and finely chopped vegetables for flavor.
Swedish Meatballs
For a classic Swedish twist, add 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg and 1/4 tsp of ground allspice to the meatball mixture. Serve them with a creamy gravy and lingonberry jam.
Turkey Meatballs
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version of the recipe. The cooking instructions remain the same.
Spicy Meatballs
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick. Serve them with a spicy tomato sauce or on their own as a snack.
These juicy homemade meatballs are a perfect addition to any meal. Try them out for your next family dinner or party and impress your guests with the delicious taste and tender texture.
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FAQ
Can I substitute the beef with another type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with ground pork, turkey, chicken or lamb. Keep in mind that the meatballs will have a different flavor and texture depending on the type of meat you use.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs instead of frying them to make them healthier. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Can I use breadcrumbs instead of crackers?
Yes, you can use breadcrumbs instead of crackers to bind the meatballs together. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the meatballs will be slightly different.
Can I add cheese to the meatballs?
Yes, you can add grated Parmesan, Pecorino or any other hard cheese to the meatballs to give them extra flavor. Add 1/4 cup of cheese for every pound of meat.
Can I use a different sauce for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use any sauce you like for the meatballs. Marinara, tomato, mushroom or alfredo sauce are all great options.
Can I make the meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, you can make the meatballs gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers. You can also omit the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or cornmeal instead.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?
Insert a meat thermometer into the center of a meatball to check its internal temperature. The temperature should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the meatballs are fully cooked.
Can I cook the meatballs in the sauce?
Yes, you can cook the meatballs in the sauce. Simply add the uncooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
What can I serve with meatballs?
Meatballs can be served with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. They also make a great appetizer when served with toothpicks and a dipping sauce.
