25 Mar 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup cheddar cheese
1 egg
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dried oregano
12 oz ground beef (80/20%)
Indulge in the rich and hearty flavors of Italian cuisine with this delicious Italian Beef Meatballs recipe. This dish combines the savory taste of ground beef with aromatic spices and creamy cheddar cheese, making it the perfect comfort food. Whether you're serving it over a bed of pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as a delightful appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready when your meatballs are prepared.
2. Prepare the Mixing Bowl:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cheddar cheese, egg, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. You can use your hands for this step; just be sure to wash them well before and after.
3. Form the Meatballs:
- Take a small amount of the mixture (about a heaping tablespoon) and roll it between your palms to form meatballs about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Continue this process until all the mixture is used up. You should get approximately 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size.
4. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Lightly grease a baking sheet with a little oil or cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking. Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly to allow for even cooking.
5. Bake the Meatballs:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. To check for doneness, the internal temperature of the meatballs should be at least 160°F (71°C).
6. Serve the Meatballs:
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot, either on their own, with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as part of a larger meal.
Tips:
- For a finer texture, consider mixing the ground beef with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Use a small ice cream scooper to portion out the meatballs evenly, ensuring they cook uniformly.
- To add extra moisture, consider adding a splash of milk or a few breadcrumbs soaked in milk to the meat mixture.
- If you prefer a crispy exterior, lightly pan-fry the meatballs in a bit of olive oil before baking them.
- Experiment by adding minced garlic or freshly chopped parsley to the mixture for additional flavor.
These Italian Beef Meatballs are not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. With a perfect blend of spices and cheese, they offer a taste of authentic Italian cooking right in your kitchen. Serve them with your favorite sauce, pasta, or bread to create a satisfying and memorable meal. Enjoy your culinary creation with family and friends!