Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible "Stuffy Critics Choice Meatballs"! These mouthwatering meatballs are not just your average dinner fare; they are a culinary delight that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. With a perfect blend of savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and a rich marinara sauce, this recipe promises to elevate your weeknight meals into something truly special. Whether you're serving them over pasta, as a hearty appetizer, or simply enjoying them on their own, these meatballs are sure to impress. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create a dish that will make your family and friends rave about your cooking skills!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 jar marinara sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Using clean hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the meat mixture into uniform meatballs approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Ensure each meatball is compact and evenly shaped.
- Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each to ensure even cooking. Make sure they are not touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- While meatballs are baking, warm the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once meatballs are cooked through, carefully transfer them from the baking sheet directly into the warm marinara sauce. Gently toss to coat each meatball completely.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with pasta, crusty bread, or as a standalone appetizer.
Tips
- Mix with Care: When combining the ingredients, be sure not to overmix the meat. This will help keep your meatballs tender and juicy.
- Uniform Size: Use a small ice cream scoop or your hands to ensure that all meatballs are roughly the same size (about
- 5 inches in diameter). This ensures even cooking.
- Check the Temperature: For perfectly cooked meatballs, use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Don’t Skip the Marinara: Warm your marinara sauce while the meatballs are baking. This way, you can transfer the meatballs directly into the sauce for the best flavor infusion.
- Garnish for Flair: For an extra touch, garnish your meatballs with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Serve with Style: These meatballs are versatile! Pair them with spaghetti, serve them in a sub sandwich, or enjoy them as a standalone appetizer with toothpicks for easy eating.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
