The most delicious meatballs: I make them 3 times a week

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and develop a nice golden-brown exterior.

2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

3. Form the Meatballs:

• Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. You should yield about 20-24 meatballs depending on the size.

4. Bake the Meatballs:

• Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 70°C).

5. Heat the Sauce:

• While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and red pepper flakes (if using) to give it a bit of a kick. Simmer for a few minutes until warmed through.

6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:

• Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce and let them simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the meatballs over spaghetti, in a sub roll with melted cheese, or on their own with a sprinkle of fresh basil. Pair with garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Meat Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey, chicken, or lamb, to suit your taste preferences.
• Make Ahead: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Prepare a batch and freeze them uncooked, then bake directly from the freezer when you need a quick meal.
• Flavor Variations: Mix in additional ingredients such as chopped onions, bell peppers, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion

These meatballs have become a household favorite, not just for their taste but for their versatility and ease of preparation. Making them three times a week may seem like a lot, but they never get old! Whether you’re enjoying them for a cozy family dinner or sharing them at a gathering with friends, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them out, and you’ll see why they’re on the dinner table so often! Enjoy the hearty flavors and the joy they bring to your meals!