ADVERTISEMENT
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and spices. Use your hands to gently mix everything—don’t overwork it!
Step 3: Roll the Meatballs
Form into 1½-inch balls (a little smaller than a golf ball). Place them on a baking sheet or plate.
Step 4: Brown the Meatballs (Optional but Adds Flavor)
Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet and brown the meatballs in batches—just until the outsides are golden. You’re not cooking them through yet—this step just locks in flavor and gives a delicious crust.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Season with oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Step 6: Simmer the Meatballs
Gently place the meatballs into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30–40 minutes, or until they’re fully cooked and bursting with flavor.
🥖 How to Serve Grandma’s Meatballs
- Classic: Over spaghetti, topped with more Parmesan and fresh basil
- Comfort Style: In a meatball sub with melted mozzarella
- Simple & Pure: On their own with a slice of crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce
- Party Hit: Serve on toothpicks with warm marinara for dipping
💡 Tips from Grandma’s Kitchen
- Use a mix of meats – beef and pork together give the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overmix – gentle hands make tender meatballs.
- Let them rest – simmering in sauce helps them absorb flavor and stay juicy.
- Make ahead – these freeze beautifully for quick dinners later.
🧡 Final Thoughts: A Recipe Worth Passing Down
Grandma’s Italian meatballs are more than just a meal—they’re a tradition, a comfort, a memory in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that gets better every time you make it, because each time you add a little more love and a lot more joy.
So next time you’re craving a taste of home, roll up your sleeves, roll some meatballs, and let your kitchen fill with the warmth of timeless Italian comfort food.
Mangia! 🇮🇹🍷🍝
Have your own family twist on this classic? I’d love to hear it—every Italian grandma has her secret ingredient!
