Cheesy Garlicky Meatballs Marinara (Printable)

Tender beef and pork meatballs with garlic and cheese in rich marinara sauce.

# What You Need:

→ For the Meatballs

01 - 1.1 lb ground beef
02 - 0.55 lb ground pork
03 - 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
04 - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
09 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
10 - 1 tsp dried oregano
11 - 1 tsp salt
12 - 0.5 tsp black pepper
13 - 0.25 cup whole milk
14 - 2 tbsp olive oil for frying

→ For the Marinara Sauce

15 - 2 tbsp olive oil
16 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
17 - 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
18 - 1 tsp dried basil
19 - 1 tsp dried oregano
20 - 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
21 - 1 tsp sugar
22 - Salt and pepper to taste
23 - Fresh basil for garnish

# Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, mozzarella, eggs, minced garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined without overworking the mixture.
02 - Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, yielding approximately 24 pieces.
03 - Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
06 - Gently nestle the browned meatballs into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
07 - Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. Accompany with pasta, crusty bread, or polenta if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The combination of beef and pork ensures a moist and juicy texture.
  • Loaded with both Parmesan and mozzarella for a cheesy flavor in every bite.
  • The homemade marinara is simple to prepare and features a balance of sweet and savory notes.
  • A gluten-free option makes it accessible for everyone.
02 -
  • Do not overmix the meat to ensure the meatballs stay tender.
  • Use wet hands when rolling the meatballs to prevent the mixture from sticking.
  • Allow the sauce to simmer gently so the meatballs absorb the herb-infused tomato flavors without drying out.
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