How to Make Meatballs at Home
Ingredients:
- 450 grams of mince meat (beef, pork, lamb, or a combination)
- 120 grams breadcrumbs
- 25 grams grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 25 grams chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 60 ml milk (optional, for moistness)
- Olive oil for cooking (or use your preferred cooking oil)
- Marinara sauce (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C if you plan to bake the meatballs. If you prefer, you can also fry them.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan (if using), chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. If you want extra moistness, add milk gradually until the mixture holds together but is not too wet.
- Mix the Ingredients: Gently mix the ingredients with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can result in denser meatballs.
- Shape the Meatballs: Scoop up portions of the mixture and roll them into evenly sized meatballs. Wet your hands with a little bit of water to stop them sticking.
Cooking Option 1: - Bake in the Oven: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
Cooking Option 2:
- Fry on the Hob: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil. Cook the meatballs, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. This typically takes about 10-15 minutes. You can use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 71 degrees to know they’re ready to eat!
- Serve: Serve the meatballs on their own or with your favourite sauce. Italian Marinara sauce is a classic choice.
Optional: - Simmer in Sauce: If you want to simmer the meatballs in sauce, transfer them to a pot with your preferred sauce and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until they absorb some of the flavours. When the meatballs are done, we recommend pairing them with some delicious pasta to make a substantial meal.
