Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Feel free to substitute ground turkey for a lighter option, and if you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers work wonders in a pinch. These substitutions keep the recipe flexible and accessible, much like my grandmother’s philosophy of using what you have on hand.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and egg.
- Add the chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Using your hands, gently roll tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture into balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown nicely in the oven.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
My abuela always said that patience is key in the kitchen, and allowing the meatballs to rest helps lock in their juicy goodness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International