Experience the comforting embrace of family traditions with these Juicy Italian Meatballs, a recipe that captures the essence of Sunday dinner at Nonna’s. This delightful dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, nostalgia, and togetherness. Simmered in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce, these meatballs transcend mere sustenance, evolving into the ultimate comfort food that leaves you feeling warm and satisfied. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner, meal prep options, or simply yearning for classic Italian flavors, this recipe ticks all the boxes. With simple, wholesome ingredients, you can bring the taste of authentic Italian cooking into your home without breaking a sweat.

The magic lies in the fusion of ground meats, fresh herbs, and a homemade tomato sauce that bursts with flavor. The blend of ground beef and pork creates a juicy texture, while the Italian breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese ensure each bite is wonderfully tender and flavorful. Paired with a side of pasta or nestled in a sub roll, these meatballs are perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Get ready to dive into a plate of joy that’s easy to prepare and sure to be loved by all!

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Italian Meatballs

Flavorful Comfort Food: These meatballs provide a cozy, hearty meal reminiscent of family gatherings.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy them with pasta, in sub rolls, or even on their own!
Easy Preparation: The recipe utilizes straightforward ingredients and minimal steps for maximum taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch, freeze them, and have delicious meals on hand whenever you need.
Rich Sauce: The homemade tomato sauce with fresh herbs elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the culinary process of creating Juicy Italian Meatballs, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by clearing your workspace and ensuring you have all the ingredients on hand to avoid any last-minute scrambles.

For this recipe, you’ll need a large mixing bowl for the meatball mixture, measuring cups and spoons for precision, and a tray or plate to form and rest the meatballs before cooking. A sturdy skillet or Dutch oven is essential for browning the meatballs and simmering them in the sauce.

Make sure to have a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and don’t forget a sharp knife and cutting board to help you chop the onion and parsley. Having your ingredients prepped and your tools ready will streamline the cooking process, making it efficient and enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1/2 lb ground pork
2/3 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
3 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp whole milk
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
28 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by mixing together your meats and ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add in the Italian-style breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, which will contribute both flavor and moisture to the meatballs. Crack the two eggs into the bowl and add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and dried oregano. If you enjoy a touch of heat, sprinkle in the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Optimize the taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and then pour in the whole milk for an extra layer of tenderness. Use your hands to mix everything together just until combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Once mixed, form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and place them on a tray or plate.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

With your meatballs shaped and ready, it’s time to get them nice and golden. Heat olive oil in a skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Carefully add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides, which should take about 5–6 minutes. Once browned, transfer them to a plate. This crucial step adds depth of flavor to the meatballs, making them even more delectable when simmered in the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan used for browning the meatballs, it’s time to build those flavors. Start by adding your finely chopped onion and sautéing it for 2–3 minutes until it begins to soften. Next, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to darken slightly and develop its rich taste, which will enhance the overall sauce.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Now, it’s time to make the sauce come alive! Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and add the sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir vigorously to combine all the ingredients. The sugar helps to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a sweeter sauce that complements the meatballs perfectly.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Gently place the browned meatballs back into the pan with the tomato sauce. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low, allowing everything to simmer gently for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure that the sauce is enveloping the meatballs evenly. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the meatballs remain incredibly moist and tender.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs have simmered to perfection, serve them hot over a bed of pasta, or nestle them into a warm sub roll for a delightful meatball sandwich. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for that traditional touch. Each bite will transport you straight to the heart of Italy!

Variations

Protein: Substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Vegetables: Add finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the meatball mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme or rosemary to give a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F for food safety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with spaghetti and a side salad for a classic Italian dinner.
Enjoy in a sub roll with melted mozzarella for an easy meatball sandwich.

Tips

Let meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance their juiciness.
Double the recipe for leftovers; they freeze beautifully!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. They also freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep.

What type of pasta goes best with meatballs?

Spaghetti is the classic choice, but feel free to pair them with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, and even a combination of meats can be used in this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

These Juicy Italian Meatballs Taste Like Sunday Dinner at Nonna’s are not just a meal—they’re an experience that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. With rich flavors and a comforting aroma, they have the power to turn any ordinary day into something special. We hope you give this recipe a try and let it become a staple in your home. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts in the comments below, or try your own variations to make it your own. After all, cooking is about creativity and love, and we believe these meatballs will help you express both!