Beef meatballs are a versatile and savory delight that can be enjoyed in various dishes. Whether served with pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own, these homemade beef meatballs are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the steps of crafting these flavorful and tender delights.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce (Optional):
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Making the Meatballs:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
Making the Sauce (Optional):
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer over low heat.
- Add Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them into the sauce. Allow them to simmer in the sauce for an additional 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serving:
- Serve the beef meatballs on a bed of pasta, on a sandwich roll, or as an appetizer.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Tips:
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can pan-fry the meatballs until golden brown.
- These meatballs freeze well, so consider making a larger batch and storing some for later use.
Enjoy the delectable aroma and taste of these homemade beef meatballs, bringing a touch of comfort and satisfaction to your dining table!