Cheesy Garlicky Meatballs Marinara (Print Version)

Tender beef and pork meatballs loaded with garlic and cheese, simmered in rich Italian sauce.

# What to Use:

→ Meatballs

01 - 1.1 lb ground beef
02 - 0.55 lb ground pork
03 - 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
04 - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
09 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
10 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 0.25 cup whole milk
14 - 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

→ Marinara Sauce

15 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
16 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
17 - 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
18 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
19 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
20 - 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
21 - 1 teaspoon sugar
22 - Salt and pepper to taste
23 - Fresh basil for garnish

# How to Prepare:

01 - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, mozzarella, eggs, minced garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined without overworking the mixture.
02 - Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, yielding approximately 24 pieces.
03 - Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
06 - Gently nestle the browned meatballs into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
07 - Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. Accompany with pasta or desired side dish.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Maximum Flavor: The blend of ground beef and pork mixed with Parmesan and mozzarella creates a savory depth.
  • Simple Simmer: One-pan cooking in the marinara sauce keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
  • Customizable: Easily adapted for gluten-free diets or lighter meat options.
02 -
  • Batch Browning: Do not overcrowd the skillet when browning the meatballs; cooking in batches ensures a nice golden crust on all sides.
  • Low Simmer: Keep the heat low while the meatballs finish in the sauce to prevent them from drying out.
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