Classic Italian Meatballs

Few dishes feel as comforting and familiar as a plate of homemade meatballs. In Italian families, meatballs are more than just a meal. They represent Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and recipes passed down from one generation to the next. The smell of garlic and parsley mixing with simmering tomato sauce is enough to bring everyone to the table.

At Durazzo’s Italian Market and Deli, we believe great meatballs start with quality ingredients and a little patience. When prepared the traditional way, they are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor in every bite.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The secret to perfect meatballs begins with the right combination of meats. A blend of ground beef and pork creates the best balance of flavor and moisture. Beef provides richness, while pork adds tenderness. Some families even include a small portion of veal for extra softness.

Fresh breadcrumbs are also essential. They help keep the meatballs light instead of dense. Combine them with grated Parmigiano Reggiano, fresh parsley, garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper. A splash of milk helps keep everything moist and tender as the meatballs cook.

Using high quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference. Fresh cheese, good olive oil, and freshly chopped herbs bring authentic flavor that cannot be replicated with shortcuts.

Mixing and Shaping with Care

When mixing the ingredients together, use your hands and work gently. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Combine everything just until it holds together. The mixture should feel soft but not sticky.

Shape the meat into balls about the size of a golf ball. Try to keep them uniform so they cook evenly. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper while you prepare to cook them.

Taking your time during this step ensures each meatball will have the perfect texture once cooked.

Browning for Extra Flavor

Before adding meatballs to sauce, many Italian cooks lightly brown them in olive oil. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches. Turn them gently so they brown on all sides.

Browning creates a flavorful crust that locks in juices and adds depth to the final dish. The meatballs do not need to be fully cooked at this stage since they will finish cooking in the sauce.

This extra step may take a little more time, but the flavor payoff is worth it.

Simmering in Sunday Sauce

Once browned, transfer the meatballs into a pot of warm marinara sauce. Let them simmer gently for at least 30 to 45 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and the meatballs to become incredibly tender.

As they cook, the meat juices enrich the sauce, creating a rich and hearty combination. Serve them over spaghetti, alongside crusty Italian bread, or even on a toasted roll with melted mozzarella for a classic meatball sandwich.

The longer they simmer, the more flavorful they become. Many families agree they taste even better the next day.

A Recipe Worth Sharing

Classic Italian meatballs are simple, but they carry deep tradition and flavor. They are perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or any night when you want something satisfying and homemade.

At Durazzo’s Italian Market and Deli in Brick, NJ, we carry everything you need to make this timeless recipe at home. From quality ground meats and imported cheeses to fresh herbs and authentic pasta, we are proud to help you bring Italian tradition to your table.

Stop by and let us help you gather the ingredients for your next family meal. There is nothing better than sharing a plate of homemade meatballs with the people you love.