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The origins of Italian meatballs can be traced back to Italy, where they are known as "polpette." These flavorful morsels have a long and storied history, with roots that can be found in various regions of the country. Traditionally, meatballs were made from leftover meat, seasoned with herbs and spices, and shaped into balls, providing an economical way to feed families. Over the years, they have evolved into a diverse range of recipes, each reflecting local ingredients, culinary customs, and family traditions.

Classic Italian Meatballs

Dive into the heartwarming tradition of Italian-American cuisine with Mama's Hearty Italian Meatballs. This beloved recipe features a delightful blend of ground beef and pork, fresh herbs, and aromatic ingredients, creating a savory dish perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings. Simmered in rich marinara sauce, these meatballs are not just a meal; they are a celebration of love and togetherness. Discover the joy of cooking and cherish the memories created around the dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)

Olive oil (for frying)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork mix), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, onion, garlic, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture as this can make the meatballs tough.

      Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have around 16-20 meatballs depending on the size.

        Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a baking dish.

          Bake the Meatballs: Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs in the baking dish, ensuring they are nicely covered. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 70°C).

            Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with pasta, on a sub for a meatball sandwich, or simply enjoy them with more marinara sauce!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 4 servings