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Plate of homemade Italian meatballs served with marinara sauce

Homemade Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

A classic, comforting dish of juicy meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatball Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Lean and juicy
  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage Spicy or sweet
  • 2 large egg yolks To bind the mixture
  • 1.5 cups bread cubes Soft and fluffy for binding
  • 1 cup buttermilk For moisture and flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds depth
  • 0.5 cups grated parmesan or pecorino Romano cheese Rich and nutty flavor
  • 0.75 cups grated mozzarella cheese Adds delightful texture
  • 0.75 cups minced fresh parsley Brightens the dish
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic Enhances flavor
  • 2 teaspoons salt Essential for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper Essential for seasoning
  • 1.5 tablespoons dried Italian herb seasoning Classic Italian flavor
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar Balances flavors
For the Marinara Sauce
  • Marinara sauce Vibrant and aromatic

Method
 

Preparing the Meatballs
  1. If you prefer to broil the meatballs, preheat your broiler to 450 degrees F (232 degrees C) and prepare a broiler pan with non-stick spray or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. In a bowl, combine the bread cubes with buttermilk and let sit for about 10 minutes, mashing occasionally until it resembles a paste.
  3. Add the remaining meatball ingredients to the bowl and mix using your hands until fully combined.
  4. In a heated small skillet, fry a small meatball for 3-5 minutes on each side to test the seasoning. Adjust as necessary.
  5. Shape the mixture into balls roughly the size of a golf ball and place them on your prepared pan.
Cooking the Meatballs
  1. If broiling, place the meatballs under the broiler for about 30 minutes until they are well browned.
  2. For frying, heat oil over medium-high heat and cook meatballs in batches, turning until browned on all sides.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (176 degrees C). Nestle your meatballs into the marinara sauce and cover. Bake for about one hour.

Notes

For added flavor, use fresh herbs or add red pepper flakes for extra heat. Don't skip testing the seasoning. Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.