Description
Tender, juicy Italian meatballs inspired by Olive Garden’s signature style—perfect over spaghetti or served with marinara sauce.
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb ground pork
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup milk
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the meatballs evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to maintain tenderness.
- Form Meatballs: Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1½-inch diameter balls, ensuring they are uniform for even baking.
- Bake Meatballs: Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil for easy cleanup. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
- Serve: Once baked, serve the meatballs hot with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta, or enjoy them on their own as an appetizer.
Notes
- For extra flavor and a crispy exterior, brown the meatballs in olive oil in a skillet before baking.
- Ensure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Can be made ahead and frozen before baking for convenient meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
