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Italian cuisine holds a special place in the hearts and homes of food lovers around the world. Renowned for its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting dishes, Italian cooking evokes feelings of warmth and togetherness. Among the many beloved dishes that represent this culinary tradition, meatballs stand out as a universal favorite. Whether served with spaghetti, nestled in a sub, or enjoyed on their own, meatballs are a symbol of comfort and nostalgia, often reminding us of family gatherings and Sunday dinners.

Oven-Baked Italian Meatballs

Discover the joy of making Savory Oven-Baked Italian Meatballs, a delightful recipe that captures the warmth of traditional Italian cooking. Perfect for any occasion, these meatballs blend ground beef and pork for a juicy bite, enhanced with seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Enjoy them with pasta, in a sub, or on their own. Each tender meatball fosters connections around the dinner table, making every meal a cherished moment with loved ones.
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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 seasoned)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 cup milk

2 cups marinara sauce (for baking and serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

    Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and milk. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

      Shape the Meatballs: With clean hands, form the mixture into meatballs roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each meatball.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside. You can use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

          Add Marinara Sauce: Remove the meatballs from the oven and pour the marinara sauce over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

            Serve: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the meatballs cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm over cooked spaghetti or in sub rolls for delicious meatball sandwiches. Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4-6 servings