Classic Homemade Meatballs

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Classic Homemade Meatballs. As a child, I remember the aroma wafting through the house whenever my mom prepared them, filling the air with warmth and anticipation. Now, as an adult, I find myself recreating that same magic in my own kitchen, especially on chilly evenings when I crave a taste of nostalgia. These meatballs are the epitome of comfort food, versatile enough to be served in various ways – whether you enjoy them with spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or simply on their own with a side of marinara sauce.

Making Classic Homemade Meatballs always feels like a labor of love. The process involves simple yet wholesome ingredients that come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish. I often invite friends over when I make these, as assembling the meatballs is not just about cooking; it’s about sharing stories, laughter, and a meal that brings everyone together. Each meatball is a little bundle of flavor, enhanced by a medley of herbs that make my taste buds dance. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories we create around the dinner table.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress. They’re easy to make and even easier to customize to your liking. I love to experiment with different herbs and spices, sometimes adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. It’s a dish that evolves with every preparation, making it a staple in my kitchen. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some magic with these Classic Homemade Meatballs!

What to Gather for Classic Homemade Meatballs

When it comes to making Classic Homemade Meatballs, the ingredients are simple yet essential. Each one plays a vital role in delivering that rich, flavorful bite that we all crave. The blend of ground beef, herbs, and spices creates a savory profile that’s hard to resist. Let’s delve into the key players that bring these meatballs to life.

• 2 slices white bread – Torn into pieces, this helps to keep the meatballs moist.
• 1/2 cup milk – Used to soak the bread, it adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
• 2 lbs ground beef – The main protein that gives the meatballs their hearty texture.
• 2 eggs – These act as a binder, helping to hold everything together.
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese – Grated for added flavor and a cheesy touch.
• 3 tsp dried basil – This herb adds a fragrant, aromatic quality to the meatballs.
• 3 tsp dried oregano – Another essential herb that brings depth to the flavor.
• 3 tsp dried parsley – Freshens up the taste and adds a pop of color.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – Infuses a subtle garlicky flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tbsp granulated onion powder – Adds sweetness and depth to the meatballs.
• 1 tsp kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 1/2 tsp pepper – Provides a little kick to the meatballs.

Classic Homemade Meatballs Instructions

Making Classic Homemade Meatballs is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. Follow these steps to bring this comforting dish to life.

1. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Set it aside while you prepare the meatball mixture.
2. In a small bowl, place the torn white bread and pour in the milk. Allow the bread to soak up the milk for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it keeps the meatballs moist.
3. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to mix these ingredients thoroughly, as this will ensure even flavor distribution.
4. After the bread has soaked, gently squeeze out any excess milk and add the soaked bread to the meat mixture. It’s important not to add the milk as it can make the mixture too wet.
5. Using your hands, mix everything together until well combined. Don’t overwork the mixture; just enough to incorporate all the ingredients.
6. Preheat your oven to broil. It’s essential to do this before you start shaping the meatballs so that you can cook them right after.
7. With your hands, divide the mixture into equal portions and roll them into balls, about the size of a golf ball. Aim for around 14 meatballs, but feel free to adjust the size as you prefer.
8. Place the meatballs on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
9. Once the oven is hot, broil the meatballs for about 12 minutes. Halfway through, consider rotating them for an even browning.
10. When they’re a beautiful golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
11. Serve the meatballs with your favorite marinara sauce, or use them in other recipes like a hearty meatball soup or a delicious meatball sub.

Helpful Notes about Classic Homemade Meatballs

Making Classic Homemade Meatballs can be a rewarding experience. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your meatballs turn out perfect every time.

• Storage: After cooking, allow the meatballs to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked meatballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve these meatballs with spaghetti and marinara for a classic Italian dinner or in a sub with melted cheese for a fantastic sandwich.
• Variations: For a twist, try adding different herbs or spices to the meat mixture to create unique flavor profiles. Consider adding chili flakes for some heat!
• Serving Style: These meatballs can also be served as appetizers on toothpicks with dipping sauces for parties.

Accompaniments for Classic Homemade Meatballs

Serving Classic Homemade Meatballs offers a wealth of delicious possibilities. Here are some great ideas:

• Spaghetti: The classic pairing! Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti with a rich marinara sauce.
• Sub Sandwiches: Create hearty meatball subs by placing them in a toasted roll and topping with cheese and marinara.
• Salads: For a lighter option, serve meatballs over a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Rice or Quinoa: Pair meatballs with rice or quinoa for a wholesome and filling meal.
• Occasions: These meatballs are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even casual get-togethers with friends.
• Storage Tips: Leftover meatballs can be reheated in the oven or microwave. They taste just as good the next day!

FAQ

Conclusion

These Classic Homemade Meatballs are more than just a meal; they’re a testament to comfort and tradition. With every bite, you’re reminded of home and the warmth of family gatherings around the table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a dish that brings everyone together. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process. Your loved ones will thank you for it!

Classic Homemade Meatballs

Craving comfort food? Try these Classic Homemade Meatballs! They're packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether served with pasta or in a sub, they're a hit every time. Make these delicious meatballs tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 2 slices white bread torn, crust cut off
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 lbs ground beef
• 2 count eggs
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
• 3 tsp dried basil
• 3 tsp dried oregano
• 3 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp granulated onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper

Instructions

 

• Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Set aside while you prepare the meatball mixture.
• In a small bowl, place the torn white bread and pour in the milk. Allow the bread to soak up the milk for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it keeps the meatballs moist.
• Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to mix these ingredients thoroughly, as this will ensure even flavor distribution.
• After the bread has soaked, gently squeeze out any excess milk and add the soaked bread to the meat mixture. It’s important not to add the milk as it can make the mixture too wet.
• Using your hands, mix everything together until well combined. Don’t overwork the mixture; just enough to incorporate all the ingredients.
• Preheat your oven to broil. It’s essential to do this before you start shaping the meatballs so that you can cook them right after.
• With your hands, divide the mixture into equal portions and roll them into balls, about the size of a golf ball. Aim for around 14 meatballs, but feel free to adjust the size as you prefer.
• Place the meatballs on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
• Once the oven is hot, broil the meatballs for about 12 minutes. Halfway through, consider rotating them for an even browning.
• When they’re a beautiful golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
• Serve the meatballs with your favorite marinara sauce, or use them in other recipes like a hearty meatball soup or a delicious meatball sub.

Notes

• Storage: After cooking, allow the meatballs to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked meatballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve these meatballs with spaghetti and marinara for a classic Italian dinner or in a sub with melted cheese for a fantastic sandwich.
• Variations: For a twist, try adding different herbs or spices to the meat mixture to create unique flavor profiles. Consider adding chili flakes for some heat!
• Serving Style: These meatballs can also be served as appetizers on toothpicks with dipping sauces for parties.

Keyword classic meatballs, Comfort Food, easy meatball recipe, homemade meatballs