Imagine a dish that combines the rich, hearty flavors of perfectly seasoned meatballs with a luxuriously caramelized tomato sauce, all served alongside golden, crispy garlic bread. This isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary journey that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a comfort food enthusiast seeking the ultimate satisfying dinner, these classic Italian-inspired meatballs are about to become your new go-to recipe.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 loaf of garlic bread
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. 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 to create about 12-14 meatballs, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the meatballs into the hot skillet, allowing space between each one to ensure proper browning.
- Cook meatballs for 6-8 minutes, rotating them periodically to achieve an even, golden-brown crust on all sides. Ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and pour tomato sauce over the meatballs. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize and the meatballs to finish cooking, occasionally spooning sauce over the meatballs.
- While meatballs are simmering, prepare garlic bread by preheating oven to 375°F. Slice loaf diagonally, brush with olive oil and additional minced garlic, and toast for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Remove meatballs from skillet, plate with caramelized tomato sauce, and serve alongside warm garlic bread. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Mix meat gently: Overmixing can make meatballs tough. Use a light touch when combining ingredients to keep them tender.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure meatballs reach 160°F internally for food safety without overcooking.
- Create uniform size: Use an ice cream scoop or weigh each meatball to ensure even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give meatballs space when browning to achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Let the sauce caramelize: Patience is key when simmering to develop deep, rich flavors.
- Bread freshness matters: Use day-old bread for breadcrumbs for better texture and moisture absorption.
- Optional enhancement: Add a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 440kcal
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 29g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 114mg
