Chef John's Italian Meatballs

Recipe View Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). (5 minutes)

Recipe View Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a small bowl, soak bread crumbs in milk for 20 minutes. This will create a moist and tender meatball.

Recipe View Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the onion is very tender and slightly caramelized, about 15 minutes more.

Recipe View Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix together ground beef and ground pork. Add the sautéed onions, soaked breadcrumb mixture (including any remaining milk), eggs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, crushed garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian herb seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Use a rubber spatula or your hands to gently combine all ingredients until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs.

Recipe View Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the meatball mixture for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld and helps the meatballs hold their shape during baking.

Recipe View Form the meatballs: Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray with cooking spray. Using your hands, form the meat mixture into balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Recipe View Bake the meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven until browned and cooked through, 15 to 20 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 160 degrees F (71 degrees C) is reached.

Recipe View Simmer in sauce: Transfer the baked meatballs to your favorite prepared tomato sauce in a large pot or Dutch oven. Simmer over low heat for 1 to 2 hours, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Recipe View Serve: Serve hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy with pasta, polenta, or as a meatball sandwich!