Juicy Italian Meatballs Taste Like Sunday Dinner at Nonna’s

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These Juicy Italian Meatballs will take you straight to Nonna’s kitchen with just one bite. They’re tender, flavorful, and simmered to perfection in a rich marinara sauce that tastes like it’s been cooking all day. Whether served over spaghetti or tucked inside a crusty roll, these meatballs are the ultimate comfort food.

The blend of ground beef and pork, combined with fresh herbs, garlic, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, brings deep, savory flavor. Each meatball is browned for that irresistible crust, then gently simmered to soak up every bit of that homemade tomato sauce. One plate of these, and you’ll understand why they taste like tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Italian Meatballs Recipe

This recipe is as close as it gets to the classic Sunday supper many of us grew up with. It’s easy to make but delivers restaurant-quality results. The texture is incredibly moist thanks to the milk-soaked breadcrumbs, and the sauce is vibrant with garlic, onion, and basil. Best of all, the entire dish can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Italian Meatballs?

A mix of both ground beef and ground pork gives the best flavor and texture. The beef adds heartiness, while the pork provides fat and tenderness. You could also add veal if you want to go fully traditional, but even without it, these meatballs are melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Ingredients for the Juicy Italian Meatballs

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a specific role in building depth and flavor.

• Ground beef
• Ground pork
• Breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic
• Fresh parsley
• Eggs
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Crushed tomatoes
• Dried oregano
• Fresh basil

How To Make the Juicy Italian Meatballs

Step 1: Soak the Breadcrumbs

Combine the breadcrumbs with milk in a small bowl and let them soak while you prep the other ingredients. This step ensures extra tender meatballs.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, eggs, salt, and pepper until just combined. Don’t overmix—you want them tender.

Step 3: Shape and Sear the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the meatballs on all sides until browned. Work in batches if needed.

Step 4: Simmer in Sauce

In the same pan, add chopped onion, more garlic, and cook until softened. Pour in crushed tomatoes, add oregano and a pinch of salt. Nestle the meatballs into the sauce and let everything simmer gently for about 30 minutes. Add fresh basil at the end.

How to Serve and Store These Meatballs

These juicy Italian meatballs serve about 6 people generously, especially if paired with pasta or bread. To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the oven until warmed through.

What to Serve With Juicy Italian Meatballs?

Spaghetti or Rigatoni

The obvious but perfect match for soaking up all that saucy goodness.

Crusty Garlic Bread

A must-have for scooping up extra marinara and getting every last bite.

Creamy Polenta

A comforting alternative to pasta that pairs beautifully with meatballs.

Roasted Broccoli or Zucchini

Adds a fresh, slightly crisp contrast to the rich meat.

Caesar Salad

Crunchy romaine with creamy dressing brings balance to the plate.

Mashed Potatoes

Not traditional, but oh-so-satisfying as a hearty base.

Italian-Style Green Beans

Quick-sauteed with garlic and olive oil for a simple side.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Big Flavor?

If you love these juicy meatballs, you might enjoy trying some of these delicious mains:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli Recipe
• Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri
• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese
• Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready for your next Italian craving.

Let me know how your meatballs turned out in the comments. Did you use all beef or the pork combo? Any secret family touches you added?

Explore comforting classics and health-conscious meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next dinner favorite.

Conclusion

Making these Juicy Italian Meatballs is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting ritual that brings family and flavor to the table. From the golden sear on each ball to the slow simmer in a garlicky tomato sauce, every part of this dish delivers cozy, homemade satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for Sunday supper or meal prepping for the week, this is one you’ll come back to again and again.

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