7 Italian Meatball Recipes To Delight Your Taste Buds

“Uncover the mouthwatering flavors of Italy with these 7 delectable and authentic Italian meatball recipes that will elevate your culinary experience.”

Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich and flavorful dishes, and meatballs are no exception. These bite-sized balls of goodness have become a beloved classic in Italian cooking, often served with pasta, in sandwiches, or simply on their own. Each region of Italy boasts its own unique take on meatballs, offering a diverse array of flavors and ingredients.

In this article, we will explore seven traditional and innovative Italian meatball recipes that will transport you to the heart of Italy with every bite. From the comforting and classic Spaghetti and Italian Meatball to the aromatic and herbaceous Pesto Italian Meatball, these recipes are a celebration of Italian culinary heritage.

Classic Spaghetti and Italian Meatball: A Timeless Favorite

Dive into the quintessential Italian-American comfort food with this classic Spaghetti and Italian Meatball recipe. Tender and flavorful beef and pork Italian Meatball are simmered in a rich marinara sauce and served over al dente spaghetti for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Italian Meatball:

1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the marinara sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

Cooked spaghetti
Grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the meat mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 4: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the marinara sauce. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 5: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the saucepan, and sauté until they are softened and aromatic.
Step 6: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Once the meatballs and sauce are ready, add the meatballs to the marinara sauce and let them simmer together for a few minutes.
Step 8: To serve, place a portion of cooked spaghetti on a plate, top it with the Italian Meatball and marinara sauce, and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil on top.
Step 9: Indulge in this timeless Italian classic, and savor the harmonious combination of flavors that will take you on a journey to the cobblestone streets of Italy.

Pesto Italian Meatball: A Burst of Freshness

Elevate your meatball experience with the vibrant and herbaceous flavors of Pesto Italian Meatball. Succulent ground chicken is infused with the classic Italian pesto sauce, creating a delightful twist on traditional Italian Meatball.

Ingredients

For the Italian Meatball:

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup prepared basil pesto sauce
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the pesto sauce:

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

Cooked pasta of your choice
Additional grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Start by making the pesto sauce. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts or walnuts, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse the ingredients until they form a coarse paste.
Step 2: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto sauce reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, prepared basil pesto sauce, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 4: Shape the chicken mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Step 6: While the meatballs are baking, cook your pasta according to the package instructions.
Step 7: To serve, spoon the pesto sauce over the cooked pasta and top it with the flavorful chicken meatballs. Sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of cheesiness.
Step 8: Enjoy the fresh and herbaceous flavors of Pesto Italian Meatball, and experience the taste of Italian summer in every mouthful.

Porchetta-Style Italian Meatball: Inspired by Italian Roast Pork

Transport your taste buds to the streets of Rome with these Porchetta-Style Italian Meatball. This recipe draws inspiration from the famous Italian roast pork, Porchetta, and infuses its bold and savory flavors into succulent meatballs.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground pork
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the glaze:

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, finely chopped fresh rosemary, minced garlic, crushed fennel seeds, dried thyme, dried sage, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the pork mixture into meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly browned.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat.
Step 6: Add the finely chopped fresh rosemary, minced garlic, and lemon zest to the saucepan, and sauté for a minute or until they release their aromatic flavors.
Step 7: Remove the glaze from the heat and season it with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Once the meatballs are done baking, brush the glaze over the meatballs, coating them evenly with the flavorful mixture.
Step 9: Serve the Porchetta-Style Meatballs with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying Italian feast.

Caprese Italian Meatball: A Taste of Italy’s Beloved Salad

Experience the flavors of Italy’s beloved Caprese salad in the form of these mouthwatering Caprese Italian Meatball. These meatballs are a delightful fusion of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the filling:

Cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh mozzarella balls, halved
Fresh basil leaves

For the balsamic glaze:

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the beef mixture into meatballs and create a small indentation in the center of each meatball using your thumb.
Step 4: Fill the indentation of each meatball with a halved cherry tomato, a halved fresh mozzarella ball, and a fresh basil leaf.
Step 5: Seal the filling inside the meatball by pinching the edges together.
Step 6: Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly browned.
Step 8: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 9: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 10: Once the meatballs are done baking, drizzle the balsamic glaze over them, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 11: Serve the Caprese Meatballs with a side of fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese, and savor the delightful combination of flavors reminiscent of Italy’s iconic Caprese salad.

Lemon and Herb Italian Meatball: A Zesty Delight

Infuse your Italian Meatball with the zesty and refreshing flavors of lemon and herbs. These Lemon and Herb Italian Meatball are bursting with bright and tangy notes, elevating the humble meatball into a sophisticated and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground chicken or turkey
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the yogurt sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 clove garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken or turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the chicken or turkey mixture into meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
Step 6: Once the meatballs are done baking, serve them with the zesty and creamy yogurt sauce for a burst of freshness.
Step 7: Enjoy the delightful flavors of Lemon and Herb Meatballs, and allow the citrusy essence of lemon to elevate the taste of the traditional meatball.

Gnocchi and Italian Meatball Soup: A Hearty Italian Delight

Warm your soul with this hearty and comforting Gnocchi and Italian Meatball Soup. Tender Italian Meatball are simmered in a flavorful broth with pillowy gnocchi and vibrant vegetables, creating a filling and satisfying meal in a bowl.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the gnocchi:

1 package (16 ounces) store-bought gnocchi
Salt for boiling water

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the meat mixture into meatballs and place them on a plate.
Step 3: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 4: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, and sauté until they are softened and aromatic.
Step 5: Stir in the diced carrots and celery, and sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 6: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, and add the bay leaf and dried thyme. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 8: While the soup is simmering, prepare the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface.
Step 9: Once the meatballs are ready, add them to the simmering soup and let them cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are fully cooked.
Step 10: To serve, place a portion of cooked gnocchi in a bowl and ladle the hot meatball soup over the top.
Step 11: Enjoy the heartwarming and comforting flavors of Gnocchi and Meatball Soup, and savor the combination of tender meatballs, pillowy gnocchi, and flavorful broth.

Stuffed Artichoke Italian Meatball: A Fusion of Flavors

Experience a fusion of Italian and Mediterranean flavors with these Stuffed Artichoke Meatballs. Each meatball is filled with creamy artichoke hearts, tangy feta cheese, and earthy spinach, creating a symphony of tastes in every bite.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the filling:

1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 cup chopped fresh spinach
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the sauce:

1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup vegetable broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: In a separate mixing bowl, prepare the filling by combining the chopped artichoke hearts, chopped fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and minced garlic.
Step 4: Take a portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a spoonful of the artichoke filling in the center of the meat and encase it by shaping the meat mixture into a meatball. Repeat the process until all the meat and filling are used.
Step 5: Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: In a saucepan, combine the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to simmer.
Step 7: Once the sauce is simmering, pour it over the stuffed meatballs on the baking sheet.
Step 8: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 9: Serve the Stuffed Artichoke Meatballs with a side of your favorite pasta or a fresh green salad, and delight in the fusion of flavors that will transport you to the shores of the Mediterranean.

These seven Italian meatball recipes showcase the diverse and mouthwatering flavors that Italy has to offer. From classic Spaghetti and Italian Meatball to innovative Stuffed Artichoke Italian Meatball, each recipe is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage. Whether you’re seeking comfort, freshness, or a fusion of flavors, these Italian Meatball recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and elevate your culinary experience.

So, don your apron and embark on a culinary journey through Italy with these delightful and flavorful Italian meatball recipes. Click here and here to see another interesting recipes. Buon appetito!