Savor the Flavors of Italy: Mangia Bene Meatballs Recipe
Transport yourself to the rustic kitchens of Italy with our Mangia Bene Meatballs recipe. Bursting with authentic Italian flavors, these meatballs are a celebration of tradition, family, and good food. Whether served with spaghetti and marinara sauce or enjoyed on their own as appetizers, these tender and savory meatballs are sure to delight your taste buds and evoke memories of cozy family dinners. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to bring a taste of Italy into your home kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Instructions:
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until evenly combined.
- Form the Meatballs:
- Once the mixture is well combined, portion it into meatballs of your desired size. Roll each portion between your palms to form a round ball. Make sure the meatballs are evenly sized to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the meatballs in batches if necessary.
- Cook the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Serve with Marinara Sauce:
- Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve the meatballs hot with marinara sauce for dipping or toss them in the sauce and serve over spaghetti for a classic Italian meal.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Breadcrumbs Substitute: For a keto or low-carb version of these meatballs, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. These alternatives provide the binding agent needed for the meatballs while keeping them low in carbs.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses to add variety to your meatballs. Instead of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Customize the flavor of your meatballs by adding different herbs and spices. Try adding fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for a herbaceous twist, or incorporate crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make these meatballs keto-friendly, replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. Use grated Parmesan cheese instead of breadcrumbs for added flavor and texture. Ensure the marinara sauce is sugar-free and low in carbs or make your own keto-friendly tomato sauce at home.
- Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb version, follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and serve the meatballs with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta. You can also pair them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a satisfying meal that’s light on carbs.
With our Mangia Bene Meatballs recipe, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of Italy in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, watching your carb intake, or simply craving a hearty and delicious meal, these meatballs are sure to hit the spot. Serve them with your favorite sauce, pasta, or accompaniments, and savor every bite of these tender and flavorful Italian classics. Mangia bene (eat well) and enjoy the taste of Italy with these delicious meatballs
