Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these mouthwatering Italian meatballs that are the star of traditional Wedding Soup! Whether you're hosting a dinner party or craving a comforting meal, these perfectly seasoned, tender meatballs will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy. Imagine biting into a juicy, flavorful meatball that's crispy on the outside and incredibly moist on the inside – this recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix ingredients thoroughly using your hands, ensuring even distribution of all components.
- Gently knead the mixture for 1-2 minutes to help bind the ingredients together without overworking the meat, which can make the meatballs tough.
- Using clean hands, roll the meat mixture into uniform small meatballs, approximately 1-inch in diameter. This recipe should yield about 24-30 meatballs depending on size.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. If desired, lightly spray or brush the skillet with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain even cooking.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides, turning gently with tongs or a spatula, cooking for approximately 8-10 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Remove meatballs from the skillet and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
- Optional: For Wedding Soup, add meatballs to the prepared soup broth and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to enhance flavor.
Tips
- Meat Mixing Magic: Always mix meatball ingredients with your hands, but don't overwork the mixture. Gentle mixing prevents tough, dense meatballs.
- Temperature Matters: Use room temperature egg and ingredients for better binding and more consistent texture.
- Size Consistency: Use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to ensure uniform meatball sizes for even cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook meatballs in batches to ensure they brown evenly and develop a delicious crispy exterior.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach the safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Flavor Boost: For extra richness, consider adding a small amount of finely chopped fresh parsley or a touch of grated onion to the mixture.
- Make-Ahead Tip: These meatballs can be prepared in advance and frozen, making them perfect for quick meals and meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 65mg
