Italian beef meatballs
These Italian Beef Meatballs combine ground beef with cheddar cheese and aromatic spices for a comforting dish. Perfect with pasta or in sandwiches, they are baked to golden brown perfection.
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup cheddar cheese1 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:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready when your meatballs are prepared.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
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!
Italian beef meatballs FAQ:
Bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. They are done when they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C).
The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this and ensure they are safe to eat.
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. However, this may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so adjust seasonings as needed.
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
A standard baking sheet (approximately 18x13 inches) is suitable for this recipe. Ensure the meatballs are spaced evenly on the sheet to allow for proper cooking.
Cooking 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.
Nutrition Facts
2 ServingsCalories 600kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 1.97g
Fiber 0.46g
Sugar 0.17g
Fat 45g
More recipes
Garlic and rosemary butter pot roast chicken
A succulent one-pot roast chicken with garlic and rosemary butter.
21 Apr 2026Mediterranean stewed potatoes and green beans
Hearty Mediterranean stewed potatoes with green beans.
21 Apr 2026Garlic ginger shrimp stir fry
A quick garlic ginger shrimp stir fry, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
21 Apr 2026Balsamic-glazed steak with caponata
Enjoy tender balsamic-glazed steak served with Mediterranean caponata.
21 Apr 2026Tilapia with lemon and spices
Spicy lemon tilapia, quick and perfect for weeknight dinners.
21 Apr 2026