Baked Italian Meatballs Recipe
These Italian meatballs are a fantastic and flavorful alternative to the traditional pan-fried version. Baked to perfection, they are a delightful treat that will elevate any pasta dish or sandwich to a whole new level. Originally discovered in Cooking Light, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and Iโm excited to share it with you! Not only do these meatballs freeze beautifully, but they also make for a quick and easy dinner on busy nights. Just thaw them and add to your favorite sauce for a delicious and hassle-free meal. Enjoy these juicy, savory meatballs with spaghetti, or serve them up in a hoagie roll with sauce and cheese for an irresistible sandwich!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/3 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon low sodium salt
- 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
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Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). This temperature ensures the meatballs bake evenly and develop a beautiful, slightly crispy exterior.
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Prepare the Pan: Lightly spray a broiler pan with nonstick spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking. For easier cleanup, line the bottom of the pan with aluminum foil, then spray the foil with nonstick spray. The broiler pan’s rack allows fat to drain away, keeping the meatballs lighter and healthier.
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Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, tomato sauce, mustard powder, low sodium salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.
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Form the Meatballs: Using a 1 1/2-inch diameter scoop, form the mixture into approximately 30 meatballs. If you donโt have a scoop, you can use your hands to roll the meatballs to the same size. Arrange them on the sprayed broiler rack in the prepared pan. Make sure to space them out evenly to ensure they bake uniformly.
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Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Check the meatballs at the 15-minute mark; they should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160ยฐF (71ยฐC). The outside should be golden brown and slightly crispy.
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Serve: Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Add them to your favorite pasta sauce and serve over spaghetti for a classic Italian meal. Alternatively, place them in a hoagie roll, top with more sauce and cheese, and enjoy a delicious meatball sub.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 262.8
- Fat: 13.2 g
- Saturated Fat: 5.5 g
- Cholesterol: 77.5 mg
- Sodium: 370.1 mg
- Carbohydrates: 8.2 g
- Fiber: 0.8 g
- Sugar: 1.1 g
- Protein: 26.1 g
Serving Size:
This recipe yields 30 meatballs, with each serving containing approximately 5 meatballs. Perfect for a family dinner or to freeze for later!
Enjoy these delightful baked Italian meatballs that are sure to become a cherished addition to your meal rotation. Whether youโre serving them for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, they promise a burst of flavor and satisfaction in every bite. ๐๐ด
