Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes. They won't get quite as crispy, but they'll still be deliciously tender—just make sure to turn them halfway through.

Why do my meatballs sometimes fall apart?

Usually this means your mixture is too wet or you didn't chill them before cooking. That 10-minute rest after mixing? Nonna's secret weapon for meatballs that hold their shape!

Can I make them ahead?

Yes! Shape the raw meatballs and refrigerate for up to a day. Or freeze them uncooked—just add 5 extra minutes when cooking from frozen.

What's the best sauce for these juicy Italian meatballs?

My Nonna always used her simple marinara, but they're amazing in creamy Alfredo too. Honestly? They'll make any sauce taste like Sunday dinner.

Juicy Italian Meatballs Taste Like Sunday Dinner at Nonnas

Name: Juicy Italian Meatballs Taste Like Sunday Dinner at Nonnas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500g ground beef; 250g ground pork; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup milk; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Description

Juicy Italian meatballs that taste like Sunday dinner at Nonna’s. These tender, flavorful meatballs are perfect with pasta or in a sandwich.

Ingredients

500g ground beef
250g ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

In a large bowl, mix beef, pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and milk.
Shape the mixture into 2-inch meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook meatballs until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
Simmer in your favorite marinara sauce for 15-20 minutes.
Serve hot with pasta or crusty bread.

Notes

Use fresh herbs for best flavor.
Don’t overmix the meat to keep them tender.
Let meatballs rest before cooking to hold shape.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian