Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/16 checked
6
servings
1 lb

lean ground beef

0.5 lb

ground pork

2 unit

eggs

1 cup

onion

finely chopped

4 unit

garlic cloves

minced

0.5 cup

bell pepper

finely chopped

0.75 cup

fresh parmesan cheese

grated

0.33 cup

Italian breadcrumbs

1.5 tsp

salt

1 tsp

cayenne pepper

0.25 cup

milk

1 tbsp

Worcestershire sauce

1.5 tsp

fresh oregano

chopped

1 tsp

fresh basil

chopped

0.25 cup

fresh parsley

chopped

2 tsp

anise seeds

Step 1
~9 min

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, eggs, onion, garlic, bell pepper, parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, salt, cayenne pepper, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, and parsley.

Step 2
~9 min

Mix all ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3
~9 min

Shape the mixture into small meatballs.

Step 4
~9 min

Gently drop the meatballs into simmering sauce.

Key Technique: Simmering
Step 5
~9 min

Avoid stirring the sauce for at least 25 minutes to allow the meatballs to firm up.

Step 6
~9 min

Ensure the sauce is simmering on low heat to prevent scorching.

Key Technique: Simmering
Step 7
~9 min

Continue simmering until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

Key Technique: Simmering

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For a richer flavor, brown the meatballs in a pan before simmering in the sauce.

Use a combination of ground beef and ground veal for a more authentic Italian meatball.

Add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance the acidity.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with spaghetti, linguine, or penne pasta.

Serve with a side of garlic bread.

Serve with a fresh green salad.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Garlic Bread
Caesar Salad

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Italy

Cultural Significance

A staple in Italian-American cuisine, often associated with family gatherings and comfort food.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Christmas
Easter
Sunday Dinner

Occasion Tags

Family Dinner
Weeknight Meal
Holiday Meal

Popularity Score

70/100

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