how-to-make-meatballs

Are you looking for the ultimate meatball recipe? Soft and flavorful enough to stand up to whatever sauce you serve them with? Wonderful enough to be eaten on their own? Read on to learn how to make meatballs.

Meatballs are a favorite food for many people, so whether you are cooking for a small family or a large gathering of people, meatballs are sure to be a hit. There are many ways to prepare meatballs. Every Italian family has their own secret family recipe. If you were not fortunate enough to be raised Italian, this guide will at least ensure you can prepare meatballs as if you learned how to make meatballs at your nonna's knees.
What You'll Need to Make Meatballs
Ingredients

* 1 1/2 pounds ground round
* 5 slices stale Italian bread
* 1/2 cup Italian style bread crumbs
* 1/2 cup romano cheese, grated
* 2 handfuls of parsley, finely chopped
* 4 cloves of garlic, pressed
* 3 eggs
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Nonstick cooking spray


Equipment

* 2 large bowls
* 1-2 large shallow baking pans

How to Make Meatballs

1. Soak the stale bread in water.
2. Squeeze the bread dry, and place it in the bowl with the remaining ingredients. Reserve 1/2 cup of water.
3. Combine the meatball mix with your hands, until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Add 1/4-1/2 cup of water to the meatball mix. You want the mixture to be soft, but not overly sticky.
5. Form the mixture into balls. You can make tiny meatballs for lasagna or larger ones for subs or spaghetti. About 1 -1 1/2 inches in diameter works well for most purposes.

Baking the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 375.
2. Spray the shallow pan with non stick spray.
3. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer, not touching. Depending on the size you made the meatballs, you may need a second pan.
4. Bake them on the center oven rack, about 35-40 minutes until done. The meatballs should be browned on the outside, with no trace of pink inside.
5. Refrigerate or serve immediately.