Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these irresistible Mini Meat Balls with Garlic and Basil Sauce! Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned meatballs that melt in your mouth, infused with aromatic garlic and fresh basil, and bathed in a rich marinara sauce that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate food lover, this Italian-inspired recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen - and the best part? It's easier to make than you might think!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using your hands, gently roll the meat mixture into small, uniform meatballs approximately 1-inch in diameter. Ensure they are compact but not too tightly packed to maintain a tender texture.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly spray or brush the pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the meatballs in the heated skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning gently to brown evenly and ensure they are cooked through.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs in the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the sauce and finish cooking.
- Check the internal temperature of the meatballs with a meat thermometer - they should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Mix ingredients gently: Overmixing can make meatballs tough, so combine ingredients just until they're incorporated.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always check that meatballs reach 160°F internally to ensure they're safely cooked.
- Keep meatballs uniform: Use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to create consistent-sized meatballs for even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook meatballs in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly and cook evenly.
- Let them rest: Allowing meatballs to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain moisture and makes them more tender.
- Fresh herbs matter: Use fresh basil if possible - it provides a more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.Pro tip: These meatballs are incredibly versatile! Serve over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 310kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 26g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 114mg
