Melting Italian Meatballs

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Soak the breadcrumbs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for at least 5 minutes to absorb the milk fully.
3. Mix the meatball ingredients: Add the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, Parmesan cheese, and parsley to the soaked breadcrumb mixture. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
4. Shape the meatballs: Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then roll the mixture into 2-inch (5 cm) diameter balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake: Place the meatballs in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain and serve: Remove from the oven and drain any excess fat. Serve hot with your favorite tomato sauce, pasta, or as an appetizer.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes
• Servings: 4–6
• Difficulty: Easy

Variations & Substitutions

• Meat mix: Use a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal for richer flavor.
• Cheese variety: Try Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste.
• Herb twist: Add fresh basil or oregano to the mixture for more Italian aroma.
• Spicy version: Include a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

Serving Suggestions