A delightful, comforting dish that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup marinara sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a medium skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. A meat thermometer should register 160°F (70°C).
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. If desired, add the red pepper flakes. Simmer for a few minutes.
Once the meatballs are done, add them to the sauce, gently stirring to coat. Let them simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes before serving.
Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil if using, alongside your favorite side dishes.
