Best Homemade Italian Meatballs

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of spaghetti and meatballs, especially when those meatballs are made from scratch. These Best Homemade Italian Meatballs are the real deal: juicy, tender, and packed with flavor in every bite. They’re the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell like your Nonna’s house on a Sunday afternoon.

Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or prepping a big batch to freeze for later, these meatballs bring that rich, savory Italian taste you crave. Simmered slowly in marinara sauce, they’re perfect over pasta, stuffed in a sandwich, or served as appetizers. The best part? They’re easier to make than you might think.

Why You’ll Love This Best Homemade Italian Meatballs

These meatballs are incredibly moist thanks to a mix of ground beef and pork, with just the right amount of breadcrumbs and cheese to bind everything together. Fresh garlic and parsley give them a burst of flavor, while slow simmering makes them melt-in-your-mouth tender. They’re a reliable, no-fail comfort food that makes any meal feel like a special occasion.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Meatballs?

For meatballs that are rich and flavorful, a combination of ground beef and ground pork works beautifully. The pork adds juiciness and a depth of flavor that beef alone doesn’t always deliver. You could also mix in ground veal for a traditional Italian touch. Make sure to use meat with some fat content to keep them from drying out.

Ingredients for the Best Homemade Italian Meatballs

The beauty of this recipe is how simple the ingredients are, yet how well they come together. Each one plays a key role in the taste and texture of the final dish.

Ground beef: The backbone of the meatballs, it adds structure and classic flavor.

Ground pork: Adds extra moisture and richness.

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them light and tender.

Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and adds moisture.

Eggs: Essential for holding everything together.

Parmesan cheese: Brings in that salty, nutty flavor that defines good Italian meatballs.

Garlic: Freshly minced for maximum flavor.

Fresh parsley: Adds brightness and a touch of color.

Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all the other flavors.

Olive oil: For browning the meatballs and adding richness.

Marinara sauce: The savory bath that slowly cooks and infuses the meatballs with flavor.

How To Make the Best Homemade Italian Meatballs

Step 1: Prep the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for about 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs are soft and have absorbed the liquid.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Add the ground beef, ground pork, eggs, parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Don’t overwork the mixture or the meatballs will be tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides. They don’t need to be cooked through yet—just browned.

Step 5: Simmer in Sauce

Transfer the browned meatballs into a pot of simmering marinara sauce. Let them cook gently for 30 to 45 minutes. This slow simmer helps the flavors meld and makes the meatballs incredibly tender.

How to Serve and Store These Italian Meatballs

This recipe makes about 18 to 20 meatballs, enough to feed 6 people generously. Serve them over spaghetti, tuck them into crusty rolls for meatball subs, or even enjoy them on their own with a sprinkle of parmesan.

To store, let the meatballs cool completely. You can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze beautifully—just pack them in sauce in a freezer-safe container and they’ll last for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Meatballs?

Classic Spaghetti

You can’t go wrong with the traditional pairing of meatballs and spaghetti. It’s a family favorite for a reason.

Garlic Bread

To soak up every bit of sauce, crispy, buttery garlic bread is a must-have.

Caesar Salad

Add a crisp and creamy Caesar salad for a bit of freshness alongside the rich meatballs.

Roasted Broccoli

Something simple like roasted broccoli helps balance out the hearty meatballs and adds some greens to the plate.

Polenta

Creamy polenta makes a cozy and slightly unexpected pairing for these saucy meatballs.

Baked Ziti

If you’re serving a crowd, a side of cheesy baked ziti turns dinner into a full-on Italian feast.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

These crispy potatoes with cheesy edges are a delicious alternative to pasta.

Sauteed Spinach

Simple and garlicky, it’s a light and healthy side that plays well with bold flavors.

Want More Comforting Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these meatballs, you’re going to want to check out these hearty dishes too:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a velvety pasta that’s ultra satisfying.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you want one-pot ease with lots of flavor.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce to get that cheesy, meaty fix.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for an indulgent twist on Alfredo.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky, comforting classic.

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Let me know in the comments how your meatballs turned out. Did you serve them with pasta or go for subs? Any family traditions or special twists?

I love hearing how these recipes become a part of your home kitchen. And if you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and indulgent family favorites on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find your next weeknight winner!

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