Rocco’s Mama’s Meatballs 🍝
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 20 meatballs
- Calories: 180.6 per serving
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3 reviews)
Description:
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this cherished recipe from Rocco DiSpirito, originally shared by the renowned Mean Chef. These delectable meatballs are a true taste of home, bringing together the savory blend of ground beef and pork, enhanced with aromatic garlic, sweet onion, and the richness of parmigiano-reggiano cheese. Served over a bed of spaghetti or enjoyed on their own, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 | sweet onion |
| 1/2 | garlic cloves |
| 4 | parsley |
| 1/2 | pound ground beef |
| 1 | pound ground pork |
| 1 | egg |
| 1 | cup parmigiano-reggiano cheese |
| 1/2 | teaspoon salt |
| 5 | tablespoons extra virgin olive oil |
Instructions:
-
Prepare Stock Mix:
- Begin by creating the stock mix. Place the sweet onion, garlic cloves, and parsley into a blender or food processor.
- Blend or process until you have a smooth puree.
-
-
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground pork, egg, parmigiano-reggiano cheese, salt, and the prepared stock mix.
- Use your hands to gently knead the mixture until everything is evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs.
-
Form Meatballs:
- Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on your hands to prevent sticking.
- Shape the meat mixture into approximately 2-ounce balls. Roll them gently between your palms to form neat, round meatballs.
-
Brown the Meatballs:
- In a wide sauté pan with straight sides, pour in about half an inch of extra virgin olive oil.
- Heat the oil over a medium-high flame until it shimmers.
- Carefully add the meatballs to the pan, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides, turning them gently with tongs or a spatula. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the meatballs.
🌟 Tip: Alternatively, you can brown the meatballs on a sheet pan in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven if you prefer.
-
Simmer in Marinara:
- Once the meatballs are beautifully browned, remove them from the pan using a slotted spoon.
- Transfer the meatballs into a saucepan filled with your favorite marinara sauce. The meatballs should be fully submerged in the sauce.
- Allow the meatballs to simmer gently in the marinara sauce for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the meatballs will become tender and juicy.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Your Rocco’s Mama’s Meatballs are now ready to be enjoyed!
- Serve them as a hearty main dish, nestled on a bed of spaghetti, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of additional grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese and chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
🍴 Serving Suggestions:
- These meatballs are a fantastic centerpiece for a cozy family dinner.
- Serve over a bed of al dente spaghetti for a classic Italian meal.
- For a lighter option, try them with zucchini noodles or a fresh green salad.
- Enjoy with a glass of your favorite red wine for the perfect pairing.
📝 Recipe Notes:
- Don’t rush the browning process—this step is crucial for developing rich flavor.
- Use a mix of ground beef and pork for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste preferences. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or extra garlic for garlic lovers!
- These meatballs freeze beautifully. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in marinara sauce for a quick and easy meal anytime.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Rocco’s Mama’s Meatballs, a recipe that brings warmth and tradition to your table. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or shared with friends, these tender, flavorful meatballs are sure to be a hit! Buon appetito! 🇮🇹🍝
