Italian Meatballs

 Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

For the Meatballs:

1. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:

   • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.

2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked breadcrumbs, ground meat, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

3. Form the Meatballs:

   • With clean hands, shape the meat mixture into meatballs. You can make them whatever size you prefer, but 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter is typical.

4. Cook the Meatballs:

   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil.
   • Place the meatballs in the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides. This helps to seal in the juices.
   • You don't need to cook them through at this stage; they'll finish cooking in the sauce.

For the Sauce:

5. Make the Tomato Sauce:

   • In a separate large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
   • Season with dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
   • Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

6. Simmer with Meatballs:

   • Once the sauce is simmering, add the browned meatballs to the pot.
   • Let them simmer in the sauce for about 20-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld together.

7. Serve:

   • Serve your Italian meatballs with pasta, in subs, or as appetizers.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Italian meatballs, a comforting and flavorful dish that's sure to become a family favorite.