Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a mouthwatering Italian classic? These Beef and Black Olive Meatballs are not just any meatballs; they’re a delightful fusion of savory ground beef and briny black olives that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends! With just 40 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them with a rich marinara sauce or on their own, these meatballs are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Dive into this recipe and discover the secret to making meatballs that are juicy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped black olives, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. You should be able to make approximately 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
- Place the formed meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart to allow for even cooking.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare a simple side dish or sauce to accompany them. A marinara sauce or a fresh salad would pair nicely.
- After the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to keep them juicy.
- Serve the beef and black olive meatballs warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the meat. This can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until everything is combined for the best texture.
- Uniform Size: Aim for meatballs that are about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. This ensures they cook evenly. Using a cookie scoop can help you achieve consistent sizes.
- Baking Sheet Prep: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). This guarantees they are cooked through and safe to eat.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain their juices and enhances the overall flavor.
- Pairing Suggestions: Consider serving your meatballs with a side of spaghetti, a fresh salad, or even in a sub sandwich for a delicious twist.
- Herb Garnish: For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, garnish your meatballs with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 361kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
