Name: Chef John's Italian Meatballs to Wow Your Dinner Guests
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Plain bread crumbs (helps bind the meat mixture); 1/2 cup Milk or beef broth (adds moisture and richness); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for sautéing the onion); 1 medium Onion, diced (enhances sweetness); 1 pound Ground beef (forms the backbone of the meatballs); 1 pound Ground pork (adds juiciness); 2 large Eggs (acts as a binder); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (infuses a salty, nutty flavor); 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped (brings brightness); 3 cloves Garlic, crushed (adds bold flavor); 1 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavors); 1/2 teaspoon Ground black pepper (balances flavors); 1 tablespoon Dried Italian herb seasoning (a blend of herbs); 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (adds heat)

There’s a moment when you take that first bite of a beautifully cooked meatball, and it transports you straight to a cozy Italian kitchen. I can’t help but reminisce about the rich aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through my home as they bake to perfection. After countless trials and tribulations in the kitchen, I finally stumbled upon Chef John’s Italian Meatballs—a delightful recipe that seamlessly combines ease and extraordinary flavor.

Picture this: a bustling weeknight where the rush of life is overwhelming. Fast food calls your name, but deep down, you crave something homemade. This recipe is not only ideal for those nights, but it also impresses friends and family during gatherings. With every bite, you’ll taste the juicy combination of beef and pork, heightened by the subtleness of fresh herbs and a touch of heat. Get ready to embrace the delightful experience of crafting your own mouthwatering meatballs—you’ll never look at takeout the same way again!

Why Love Chef John’s Italian Meatballs?

Simplicity at its finest: You only need basic kitchen skills to create these perfectly seasoned meatballs.
Flavor explosion: A mouthwatering blend of ground beef and pork, paired with garlic and herbs, delivers a robust taste that is unforgettable.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak seasonings or add your favorite ingredients for a personal touch.
Ideal for gatherings: Impress guests at your next dinner party or family gathering with this crowd-pleaser.
Time-efficient: While they require some chilling, the actual cooking process is fast, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Elevate your cooking game with this recipe, and alongside your meatballs, why not prepare a delicious homemade sauce? Check out our guide on simple tomato sauces for a perfect pairing!

Chef John’s Italian Meatballs Ingredients

• Dive into the heart of Italy with these hearty meatballs!

For the Meatball Mixture

Plain bread crumbs – helps bind the meat mixture, ensuring tender meatballs.
Milk or beef broth – adds moisture and richness for a delightful flavor.
Olive oil – used to sauté the onion, providing a savory base.
Onion, diced – enhances sweetness and depth in the meatball mixture.
Ground beef – forms the hearty backbone of the meatball recipe.
Ground pork – adds juiciness and a hint of sweetness to the meatballs.
Large eggs – acts as a binder to hold everything together.
Grated Parmesan cheese – infuses a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste.
Fresh parsley, chopped – brings a touch of brightness and freshness to every bite.
Garlic, crushed – adds an aromatic, bold flavor that’s quintessential in Italian cooking.
Salt – enhances the natural flavors within the mix.
Ground black pepper – balances the flavors and brings a hint of warmth.
Dried Italian herb seasoning – a blend of herbs that instantly transports you to Italy with each bite.
Red pepper flakes – add just the right amount of kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Now that you have everything prepped, you’re one step closer to savoring Chef John’s Italian Meatballs that will impress your family and friends alike!

How to Make Chef John’s Italian Meatballs

Gather all ingredients. Begin by assembling your kitchen essentials—everything you need is vital for crafting these delightful meatballs. It’s like having the perfect symphony before the concert!
Prepare the baking sheet. Cover it with foil and spray lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step ensures a smooth transfer later, keeping every meatball intact and beautifully shaped.
Soak bread crumbs. In a small bowl, mix the plain bread crumbs with milk or beef broth and let them soak for 20 minutes. This adds moisture, making your meatballs tender and deliciously flavorful.
Sauté the onions. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. This sweetens the onion and sets a fantastic base for your meatballs.
Cook the onions further. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking until the onion is very tender, about 15 minutes more. Patience here rewards you with richer flavors that will shine through your dish.
Mix the meats. In a large bowl, gently stir together the ground beef and ground pork. Combining these two creates a luscious texture and a depth of flavor that will wow your taste buds.
Combine all ingredients. Add the cooked onions, soaked bread crumb mixture, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian herb seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the meat. Mix until just combined, avoiding overworking!
Chill the mixture. Cover and refrigerate the meatball mixture for about one hour. This crucial step helps all those fantastic flavors meld together beautifully.
Preheat the oven. Set it to 425°F (220°C) so it’s ready to bake your meatballs to perfection.
Shape the meatballs. Form the mixture into balls about 1 ½ inches in diameter. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This size cooks evenly, giving you that perfect golden crust.
Bake them up! Place your meatballs in the preheated oven and bake until browned and cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
Serve them hot! Pair your delicious meatballs with your favorite tomato sauce for an authentic Italian experience. Enjoy every bite that melts in your mouth!

Optional: Serve with fresh basil or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Chef John’s Italian Meatballs

Fridge: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals!

Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months, perfect for meal prep!

Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen meatballs at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Feel free to pair with your favorite sauce for a quick dinner.

Thawing: For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You’ll appreciate the preserved flavor and texture of Chef John’s Italian Meatballs!

Chef John’s Italian Meatballs Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by adding personal touches to these delightful meatballs!

Gluten-Free: Swap plain bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a tender alternative.
Lean Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork for a lighter, healthier option. You’ll maintain great flavor while lowering the fat content!
Vegetarian: Substitute the meats with a blend of finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, and walnuts. This creates an earthy flavor and a hearty texture everyone will love.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños for an extra burst of heat. Spice lovers will savor the added warmth!
Italian Sausage: Mix in ground Italian sausage for a distinct, flavorful twist that’ll have everyone coming back for more. The spices in the sausage bring a fabulous depth!
Herb Enhancer: Incorporate chopped fresh basil or oregano alongside parsley for a fragrant infusion of flavor. It brings out the Italian essence beautifully.
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Add crumbled feta or mozzarella cheese into the mixture for a creamy burst in every bite. This will surprise and delight your taste buds!
Smoky Flavor: Introduce smoked paprika to the mix for a warm, smoky undertone that adds a unique vibe to your meatballs. It’s a delicious departure from the classic!

What to Serve with Chef John’s Italian Meatballs?

Crafting the perfect dinner doesn’t stop at delivering mouthwatering meatballs; it’s all about creating a meal that delights the senses.

Creamy Polenta: The smooth, velvety texture of polenta perfectly complements the juicy meatballs, adding a comforting base for each bite.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread absorbs any extra tomato sauce while providing a satisfying flavor contrast.
Classic Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and zesty dressing add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the meatballs and sauce, making for a well-rounded meal.

Try a caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and basil. The vibrant flavors and colorful presentation will elevate your dining experience and tie together the Italian theme beautifully!

Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds a delightful sweetness and texture that pairs harmoniously with the savory meatballs.
Spaghetti: Toss some al dente spaghetti in your favorite marinara sauce; it’s the classic pairing that transforms your meatball dish into an authentic Italian feast.
Red Wine: A full-bodied Chianti perfectly complements the flavors of your meatballs, enhancing the meal and making it feel truly special.
Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian sweet treat offers a creamy, coffee-infused indulgence that completes your Italian feast on a high note. Enjoy each layer, and let the flavors linger!

Make Ahead Options

These Chef John’s Italian Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the meatball mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to cover it tightly to keep the flavors fresh. Alternatively, shape the meatballs and store them on a baking sheet, covered with plastic wrap, in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. If you prefer, you can also freeze the uncooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet; once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake straight from the fridge or freezer, adjusting the cooking time as needed for the frozen meatballs. Embrace this time-saving option—enjoy homemade comfort food without the rush!

Helpful Tricks for Chef John’s Italian Meatballs

Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley greatly enhances the flavor, so opt for it instead of dried for a burst of freshness in every bite.
Avoid overmixing: When combining the meat and ingredients, mix gently to keep your meatballs tender; overmixing makes them tough.
Proper chilling: Don’t skip refrigerating the mixture for an hour; this step truly allows the flavors to meld and helps the meatballs hold their shape.
Uniform size: Form meatballs that are roughly 1 ½ inches in diameter to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout.
Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked through; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for perfect results.

Following these tips will help you create Chef John’s Italian Meatballs that are flavorful and satisfying, making every meal special!

Chef John’s Italian Meatballs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ground beef and pork for meatballs?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef, look for 80/20 blend, as the fat content ensures juicy, flavorful meatballs. For ground pork, choose a fresh product that’s bright pink without any dark spots. That mix of beef and pork will genuinely elevate your meatball game!

How should I store leftover meatballs?
I recommend placing any leftover Italian meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. Just make sure they fully cool down before sealing them up to prevent any moisture buildup, which can affect their texture.

Can I freeze Chef John’s Italian Meatballs?
Very! To freeze your meatballs, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to 3 months. This makes for an easy meal option later on!

What’s the best way to reheat frozen meatballs?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once ready, arrange the frozen meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through. For added flavor, consider basting them with your favorite tomato sauce halfway through reheating.

Are there alternatives for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to make a gluten-free version, substitute the plain bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or cooked quinoa. Additionally, if someone has a dairy allergy, you can use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

What should I do if my meat mixture is too wet?
If your mixture becomes too wet, start by adding more bread crumbs, a tablespoon at a time, until a firmer consistency is achieved. Mix gently to avoid toughening them. You can also let the mixture chill longer in the refrigerator—this can help with binding as well!