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Pair of tong holding meatball over a cast-iron skillet.

Almost Grandma's Meatballs

5 stars (1 rating)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Inactive Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

  • 4 cloves garlic
  • ½ medium yellow onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • cup parsley, chopped finely
  • ¼ cup grated pecorino
  • ¼ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a sheet pan with aluminum foil.
  • Using a mini food processor, puree the garlic and onion, scraping down the sides, as needed; a few little chunks are fine; transfer to a large bowl.
  • Add the ground beef, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, parsley, pecorino, Parmigiano Reggiano, salt and pepper.
  • Using your hands, gently mix until all ingredients are combined; do not mash or overmix the mixture.
  • Refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes.
  • Fill a large, high-sided skillet with a 1-inch of vegetable oil, and heat to 350-degrees.
  • Meanwhile, using a ¼ cup scoop, portion the meat.
  • Gently roll each portion into a ball, being sure not to pack the meat too tight.
  • Fry the meatballs in batches, cooking each side until deep brown, about 1-2 per side.
  • Transfer the meatballs to the prepared sheet pan.
  • Bake to an internal temperature of 165°F, about 12 to 15 minutes.
  • Alternatively, you can finish cooking the meatballs in simmering marinara sauce for 30 minutes.
  • Serve with a good tomato sauce and your favorite pasta.

Notes

If you want to avoid frying, bake the meatballs in a 400°F oven to an internal temperature of 165°F, about 20 to 25 minutes.
Course: Main Course
Author: Anthony Michael Contrino