The Meatball Shop is a popular restaurant chain known for its delicious and customizable meatball dishes. Among the many mouthwatering recipes they offer, their easy meatball recipe stands out as a favorite among meatball enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Here’s everything you need to know about The Meatball Shop’s best easy meatball recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, milk, eggs, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, using your hands to roll them into round shapes.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the meatballs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches.
4. Cook the meatballs for about 5 minutes, or until they are browned on all sides. This will help seal in the flavors and juices.
5. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are fully covered. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 20 minutes.
6. Remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve the meatballs with your choice of pasta, bread, or as a standalone dish. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Now that you have the recipe, let’s address some common questions about The Meatball Shop’s best easy meatball recipe:
Q1. Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
A1. Absolutely! You can experiment with different combinations of ground meats such as beef, pork, veal, or even turkey to create your own unique flavor profile.
Q2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A2. Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can be a great time-saving option for busy days.
Q3. Can I freeze the meatballs?
A3. Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before reheating.
Q4. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
A4. While the homemade marinara sauce adds an extra level of flavor, you can certainly use store-bought marinara sauce if you’re short on time.
Q5. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
A5. Yes, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Q6. Can I substitute the breadcrumbs with something else?
A6. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Q7. Can I add vegetables to the meatball mixture?
A7. Yes, you can add finely chopped onions, carrots, or bell peppers to the mixture for added flavor and texture.
Q8. What other spices can I use to season the meatballs?
A8. Feel free to experiment with different spices such as oregano, basil, thyme, or even a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor of the meatballs.
Q9. Can I make smaller or larger meatballs?
A9. Absolutely! Adjust the size of the meatballs to your preference. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
With this easy meatball recipe from The Meatball Shop, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that is versatile, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a delicious meatball feast!