Ingredients

The following ingredients have 25 Servings
  • 1.5 lb. ground beef
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil 
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz.) can crushed tomatoes (2 cups)
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 3-4 bay leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)

Instruction

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine beef with breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic, parsley, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Mix well and form the mixture into a uniform consistency.
  • Take 2 spoonfuls of the beef mixture at a time and roll them into meatballs. Set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or shallow saucepan over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until the hot oil sizzles. Slowly add the meatballs and gently stir to cook until browned on all sides, about 6 to 8 minutes. Make sure to stir gently to prevent meatballs from disintegrating. Transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside (Note that the meatballs are not fully cooked at this point). 
  • In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste and bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper.
  • Return the meatballs to the skillet and bring the sauce mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cover the lid and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked.
  • Sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.