Are you ready to elevate your midweek meals with a comforting yet gourmet staple? This Italian baked meatballs recipe is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrition and flavor! Bursting with herbs and spices, these meatballs can be a game changer for quick dinners. Why settle for store-bought when homemade with love and quality ingredients is only a few steps away?
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (can replace with nutritional yeast for vegan)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg (flax egg for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk (use almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
For a unique flavor twist, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice!
Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (20% faster than most similar dishes!)
This timeframe allows you to whip up a delicious family dinner without time constraints. For some extra meal prep strategies, check out this healthy weight loss guide.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure perfect baking while you prepare the meatballs.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Use your hands to mix thoroughly but gently—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
3. Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the Meatballs
Put the meatballs in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You may want to stir them halfway for even browning.
5. Prepare the Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs are done, gently place them in the sauce to coat.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (4 meatballs):
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 15g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
For more insights on nutrition, check out this cabbage benefits article which details healthy alternatives!
Healthier Alternatives
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Opt for whole grain breadcrumbs to increase fiber.
- Replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
If you’re interested in more healthy recipes, try checking this Healthy Cabbage Casserole Recipe.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian baked meatballs are fantastic served over whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles. They also work wonderfully in meatball subs or atop a fresh garden salad. Whether for family dinners or potluck gatherings, they’re sure to impress!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat can result in tough meatballs. Be gentle when combining ingredients.
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the resting period after baking will make the meatballs less juicy.
Storing Tips
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe bag, separating them with parchment paper for easy removal. Reheat in the oven or microwave!
Conclusion
In summary, this Italian baked meatballs recipe is a delightful and simple addition to your dinner repertoire. With just a few ingredients and essential techniques, you can create a dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious. Don’t wait—try making them today! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you try—leave a comment below or explore our Cabbage Pancakes recipe for another delicious meal idea!
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before baking, then cook them straight from frozen.
How can I add more flavor?
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices like basil, thyme, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
Are these meatballs gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, these meatballs can easily be made gluten-free!