Italian Meatballs

Ingredients:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)

1 egg

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

Olive oil (for frying)

2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Make the meatball mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, egg, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until everything is evenly combined.

2. Form the meatballs:

Roll the mixture into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).

3. Cook the meatballs:

Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). You don’t need to cook them through yet.

4. Simmer in sauce:

Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.

5. Serve:

Serve hot with pasta, in a sandwich, or with a side of crusty bread. Top with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.