Lorenzo Devereaux
Tender, juicy, and brimming with rich Italian flavor, these Homemade Meatballs are everything you crave in a comforting dish. Whether you’re making a big batch for Sunday dinner or prepping a weeknight meal that feels special, these meatballs never disappoint. Simmered in a savory tomato sauce and finished with fresh herbs and a dusting of parmesan, they bring warmth to any table.
You can serve them as the star of a pasta dish, tuck them into crusty bread for a meatball sub, or enjoy them solo with a fresh salad on the side. These classic meatballs are simple to make, incredibly versatile, and always a hit with kids and adults alike.
What Kind of Meat Should I Use?
For the best texture and flavor, a combination of ground beef and pork is ideal. The beef brings that hearty, meaty richness, while the pork adds tenderness and just the right amount of fat to keep the meatballs moist. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute ground turkey, but be sure to add a touch more olive oil or grated onion to retain moisture.
Ingredients for the Homemade Meatballs
Ground Beef & Ground Pork: These two work together to create that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Go for an 80/20 blend for the beef to ensure juiciness.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything and gives the meatballs that tender bite. Opt for Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs or add your own mix of dried herbs.
Eggs: They help hold the meatballs together without making them dense.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami kick that enhances the flavor of the meat.
Garlic & Onion: Freshly minced garlic and finely chopped onion bring essential aromatics to the mix.
Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs, which contributes to a moist, light texture.
Fresh Parsley: A bright herbal note that cuts through the richness of the meat.
Salt & Black Pepper: The essentials to make everything pop. Always taste test your mix with a mini patty before shaping!
Olive Oil: For searing the meatballs to a perfect golden brown before they finish cooking in the sauce.
Tomato Sauce: Once seared, the meatballs are simmered in sauce to soak up extra flavor and stay moist.
How To Make the Homemade Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and pork. Add breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, parmesan, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon—don’t overmix, or the meatballs can become tough.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you go.
Step 3: Sear the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and sear them on all sides until browned—about 2-3 minutes per side. This step builds flavor and locks in juices.
Step 4: Simmer in Sauce
Transfer the seared meatballs into a large pot or Dutch oven. Pour in your tomato sauce, covering the meatballs fully. Simmer over low heat for 30 to 40 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Top the finished dish with extra grated parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the rich aroma and hearty flavor!
How to Serve and Store Homemade Meatballs
Homemade meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a classic dinner, serve them over spaghetti or other long noodles, generously ladled with that savory tomato sauce. For gatherings, they make a perfect party appetizer when skewered or served with toothpicks and a dipping sauce. If you’re craving a sandwich, tuck a few into a toasted hoagie roll with melted provolone for a hearty meatball sub.
To store, let the meatballs cool to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container with some sauce and refrigerate for up to 4 days. They also freeze well—lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat on the stovetop in sauce or in the microwave until warmed through.
What to Serve With Homemade Meatballs?
Garlic Bread
Buttery, crispy garlic bread is a perfect side to soak up every drop of sauce.
Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing provides a refreshing balance.
Spaghetti or Linguine
Keep it traditional and serve over your favorite pasta.
Roasted Vegetables
Oven-roasted carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition to the plate.
Polenta
Creamy polenta is a hearty alternative to pasta and complements meatballs beautifully.
Mashed Potatoes
Ultra-comforting and perfect for soaking up the tomato sauce.
Sautéed Spinach
Quick, garlicky spinach makes for a healthy, flavorful pairing.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring a burst of freshness to the table.
Want More Dinner Ideas with Comfort Food Vibes?
If you’re hooked on these juicy Homemade Meatballs, you’ll want to explore these other hearty and satisfying dinners:
- Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving pasta with a rich and velvety sauce.
- Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a cheesy and beefy pasta twist.
- Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you want an indulgent, comforting bake.
- One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for quick cleanup and big flavor.
- Taco Ranch Bites for a fun, bold-flavored appetizer.
Save This Pin For Later
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go full classic or add a spicy kick? Did you serve them on pasta or bread?
I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Got questions? I’m happy to help—let’s make mealtime magic happen.
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Homemade Meatballs
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Skillet
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 0.5 cup whole milk
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup finely chopped onion
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups tomato sauce
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, parmesan, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Shape into 1.5-inch meatballs and place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown meatballs on all sides.
- Transfer meatballs to a pot, pour in tomato sauce, and simmer for 30–40 minutes.
- Serve with pasta, bread, or as desired. Garnish with extra parmesan and parsley.
Notes
To freeze: cool completely, then store in sauce in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.