Shaye’s Best Italian Meatballs: A Family Favorite Recipe
Discover the delightful taste of Shaye’s Best Italian Meatballs, a cherished recipe that has evolved over the years into a beloved family classic. Originating from a simple sticker on a hamburger package at a local store, this meatball recipe has been perfected through gentle handling of the meat to ensure a tender texture that is simply irresistible. With an emphasis on keeping the hamburger mixture light and airy, these meatballs are sure to impress at any meal, making them an excellent choice for families and gatherings alike.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 12 meatballs
- Recipe Category: Meat
- Keywords: European, Kid Friendly, < 30 Mins
Description
These meatballs are not only quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, but they also deliver exceptional flavor and tenderness that will please even the pickiest eaters in your family. With a combination of fresh ingredients such as parsley and garlic, they pack a flavorful punch that is both hearty and comforting. Serve them over pasta or nestled in crusty rolls for a delightful meal that everyone will adore.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Egg |
| 1/4 cup | Onions, finely chopped |
| 1 | Parsley, chopped |
| 2 cloves | Garlic, minced |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 1 tsp | Pepper |
| 1/2 lb | Ground beef |
| 1/8 tsp | Red pepper flakes (optional) |
| 4 cups | Spaghetti sauce |
Nutritional Information (Per Meatball)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 42.5 mg |
| Sodium | 343.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 7.9 g |
| Fiber | 1.3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Protein | 8.2 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine all ingredients—egg, finely chopped onions, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper—with the ground beef. Remember, the key to tender meatballs is to mix gently; avoid compressing the meat too much to maintain a light texture.
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Shape the Meatballs: Once combined, use your hands to shape the mixture into 12 meatballs, each measuring about 1-1/2 inches in diameter. Make sure to roll them lightly to keep them airy.
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Heat the Skillet: Spray a skillet with non-stick cooking spray or brush with a bit of oil. Heat the skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until it’s hot.
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Brown the Meatballs: Carefully place the meatballs in the hot skillet. Brown them by cooking for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they are evenly cooked on all sides.
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Add Spaghetti Sauce: Once the meatballs are browned, add the spaghetti sauce to the skillet, ensuring that the meatballs are well-coated.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 9 to 11 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
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Serve: Once cooked through, serve the meatballs over a bed of cooked pasta for a traditional Italian meal, or place them inside crusty rolls for a delicious meatball sub that will be a hit at any gathering.
Cooking Tips and Variations
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Make-Ahead: These meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen for up to three months. Simply shape them, freeze individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as basil or oregano for added flavor.
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Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy twist.
Final Thoughts
Shaye’s Best Italian Meatballs are more than just a meal; they are a tradition that brings families together around the dinner table, evoking the warmth of home-cooked goodness. Whether served atop spaghetti, tucked into a sandwich, or enjoyed on their own, these meatballs promise a satisfying dining experience that delights both young and old. Enjoy every bite of this simple yet delicious recipe, and watch as it becomes a staple in your household, just as it has in ours.
For more delightful recipes that evoke the joy of cooking and eating, visit us at Love With Recipes and discover the joy of creating memorable meals for your loved ones.
