Grandma's Meatballs
A comforting and classic meatball recipe that combines tender ground chuck with flavorful herbs, served with marinara sauce.
Ingredients
For the meatballs
- 6 large eggs
- 6 tbsp half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1.5 cups breadcrumbs Use day-old bread for better flavor.
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1.5 tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 6 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1.5 tsp table salt
- 0.75 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 0.125 tsp crushed red pepper flakes Optional for spice.
- 3 lbs ground chuck
For the sauce
- 5-6 quarts marinara sauce Click for recipe.
Garnish
- to taste chopped fresh basil Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Beat the eggs lightly in a large mixing bowl with a fork.
- Add the half-and-half, breadcrumbs, parsley, basil, oregano, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add ground chuck to the breadcrumb mixture and mix until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overwork the mixture or the meatballs will be tough.
- Divide and shape the meat into equal-sized meatballs by rolling gently between your hands.
- At this point, the meatballs can be cooked immediately or frozen raw for later use.
Cooking
- Bring your favorite sauce to a boil over medium heat, stirring often.
- Add the raw meatballs and return the mixture to a boil without stirring.
- After 5 minutes, stir very gently so the meatballs stay intact. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, gently stirring every 5 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (165°F).
- Transfer the meatballs to a metal rack set over a rimmed baking sheet and continue cooking the sauce at a simmer. Stir every 10 minutes until it is reduced to the desired thickness.
Serving
- Serve the meatballs topped with sauce and fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking. You can adjust the spice level by adding more crushed red pepper flakes. Using fresh herbs can enhance flavor. Baking option available at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.