Erin’s Classic Italian Meatballs

Serves: 6–8 | Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 3 hours (simmer)

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 lb ground pork
• 2 eggs + 1 extra yolk
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp oregano
• 2–3 tsp chopped fresh basil
• Handful of chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs or fresh bread soaked in milk
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  
  

Directions

1. Mix the meat: In a large bowl, combine the beef, pork, eggs, spices, herbs, and cheese. (Tip: don’t overwork the mixture- it keeps the meatballs tender.)
2. Soak the bread: In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with ½ cup of milk until softened. Add this to the meat mixture.
3. Adjust texture: Slowly pour in the remaining milk as needed-you want the mixture moist but not soupy.
4. Form meatballs: Roll to your desired size, keeping them consistent. For best results, let them rest on a baking sheet in the fridge for at least an hour.
5. Brown and simmer: Heat olive oil in a pan and brown the meatballs (about 3–6 minutes). Transfer to a pot of sauce and simmer low and slow for about 3 hours.
   
   

So tender, flavorful, and absolutely worth the wait. Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or just a fork.