If you’re a fan of classic Italian dishes, then you’re going to love this Meatball Parmesan recipe. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With juicy meatballs smothered in rich tomato sauce and covered in melted cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make. So, grab your apron and get ready to cook up a storm.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
For the sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
For the assembly:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, and oregano until well combined.
- Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-1/2 inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes or until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes into the pan and add the salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the sauce and stir gently to coat.
- In a separate baking dish, layer the meatballs and sauce with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the dish for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips for making the perfect meatballs:
- Use a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal. This creates a more flavorful and tender meatball.
- Don’t overwork the meat mixture, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
- Use breadcrumbs as a binding agent, but don’t use too much or your meatballs will be dry. Start with 1/2 cup for every pound of meat.
- Don’t skip the step of browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce. This adds flavor and texture to the meatballs.
- If you have time, let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips for making the perfect tomato sauce:
- Use San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweet and rich flavor.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Use fresh herbs, like basil and oregano, for a more vibrant flavor.
- Cook the sauce low and slow for at least an hour to allow the flavors to develop.
Tips for assembling the Meatball Parmesan:
- Use a good quality mozzarella cheese that melts well, like fresh mozzarella.
- Don’t overcrowd the meatballs in the dish, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Top the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or pasta for a complete meal.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the perfect Meatball Parmesan dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
Serve your Meatball Parmesan hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic Italian dish. This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s also a great way to get your family to eat more veggies. You can serve it with a side of salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Give this recipe a try and you won’t be disappointed.
