Name: Juicy Italian Meatballs Taste Like Sunday Dinner at Nonna's
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (or half beef, half pork); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 cup milk; 1 egg; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups marinara sauce

Is there anything more comforting than a plate of juicy Italian meatballs bathed in rich tomato sauce and nestled on a bed of al dente spaghetti? This recipe is everything you love about classic Italian cuisine: simple, soul-satisfying, and steeped in tradition. Each bite bursts with savory beef, herby goodness, and just the right amount of garlic and cheese to transport you to Nonna’s kitchen.

Perfect for Sunday supper or a cozy weeknight meal, these meatballs are tender and flavorful thanks to a blend of fresh parsley, Parmesan, and a touch of milk-soaked breadcrumbs. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a crowd, they’re guaranteed to bring everyone to the table with smiles and second helpings.

What Kind of Ground Meat Should I Use?

You can use a mix of ground beef and pork for richness and moisture, but feel free to go all-beef if that’s your preference. Aim for 80/20 ground beef to keep things juicy. Leaner meat will dry out, and you’ll miss that luscious texture that makes these meatballs truly memorable.

Ingredients for the Juicy Italian Meatballs

Ground beef (or beef and pork mix): The foundation of every good meatball.
Breadcrumbs: Soaked in milk to create tenderness.
Egg: Helps bind the mixture.
Fresh parsley: Brightens and freshens each bite.
Garlic: A must-have in Italian cooking.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance flavor.
Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs.
Olive oil: For searing the meatballs before they simmer in sauce.
Marinara sauce: Store-bought or homemade, your choice!

How To Make the Juicy Italian Meatballs

Step 1: Soak the Breadcrumbs

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with milk and let sit for 5 minutes until fully absorbed.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Base

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until just combined—don’t overwork it.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. You should get around 16-20.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. Don’t overcrowd the pan; do it in batches if needed.

Step 5: Simmer in Sauce

Add your favorite marinara sauce to the skillet, lower the heat, and simmer the meatballs for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and tender.

Serving and Storing These Italian Meatballs

Serve these beauties hot over pasta, tucked into hoagie rolls, or even on their own with a slice of crusty bread. Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in sauce on the stove for best results.

What to Serve With Juicy Italian Meatballs?

Garlic Bread

A crusty, buttery classic that’s perfect for scooping up sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine and creamy dressing add balance to the meal.

Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

This simple side adds flavor and crunch. Try this roasted green bean recipe.

Creamy Polenta

A velvety alternative to pasta.

Italian Chopped Salad

Packed with olives, peppers, and cured meats.

Mozzarella-Stuffed Breadsticks

Pull-apart and cheesy for dipping in marinara.

Roasted Broccoli and Sweet Potatoes

Earthy and hearty—try this delicious combo from ChefAlchemy.

Want More Italian Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Juicy Italian Meatballs, you’ll want to try these delicious dishes too:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for rich, cheesy comfort.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for quick weeknight magic.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta with luxurious sauce.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re craving something indulgent.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a buttery twist.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with beef or do a mix? Serve it with spaghetti or crusty bread?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, one meatball at a time.

Explore beautifully curated Italian and comfort meals on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dinner!

Juicy Italian Meatballs Taste Like Sunday Dinner at Nonna’s

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Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Bring the taste of Sunday dinner straight to your kitchen with these juicy Italian meatballs. Simmered in rich marinara and packed with herbs, cheese, and flavor, these homemade meatballs are the comfort food you didn’t know you needed. Whether served over spaghetti or tucked into a toasted hoagie, they satisfy every craving. It’s a delicious and easy recipe that doubles as a go-to for weeknight meals, cozy gatherings, or freezer prep. If you’re searching for quick dinner ideas, easy Italian recipes, or a hearty family favorite, these meatballs check all the boxes.