Get ready to transform your dinner table with the most mouthwatering meatballs you've ever tasted! These Italian-inspired beef and sausage meatballs are not just a meal, they're a culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine perfectly browned, juicy meatballs swimming in rich marinara sauce, packed with incredible flavors that blend the robust taste of ground beef and spicy Italian sausage. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that promises restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and Italian sausage. Remove sausage from its casing if it's in links.
- Add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently form the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Aim for about 12-14 meatballs total.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Do not add oil, as the meat will release its own fat.
- Carefully place meatballs in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning carefully to brown evenly.
- Once meatballs are browned on all sides, pour marinara sauce over them in the skillet. Reduce heat to low-medium.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Tips
- Mix meats gently: Overworking the meat can make your meatballs tough. Use a light touch when combining ingredients.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always check that meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they're safely cooked.
- For extra moisture, consider adding a splash of milk to your breadcrumbs before mixing into the meat.
- Let meatballs rest after cooking to help them retain their juices and develop deeper flavors.
- If you prefer oven-baking, place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and cook at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for easy future meals. They'll keep for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 130mg
