Today’s recipe is another delightful discovery from my trip to Wisconsin, and it’s one that I simply had to share with you. I had never tried making meatballs with sausage before, but these Italian Meatballs were a revelation. They turned out incredibly moist and packed with flavor, making them an instant favorite in my kitchen.

These Italian Meatballs are versatile and can be used in any dish that calls for fully cooked meatballs. To prepare them for future use, follow the recipe instructions up to step #6, then allow the meatballs to cool completely on a cooling rack or on a dish lined with paper towels. Once they’ve cooled, place the meatballs in a freezer bag and store them in the freezer until you’re ready to use them.

This method makes it easy to have delicious, homemade meatballs on hand for a quick meal. Whether you’re adding them to pasta, sandwiches, or even soups, these Italian Meatballs are sure to elevate any dish. I hope you enjoy making and savoring these flavorful meatballs as much as I did!

Ingredients for Italian Meatballs

• EGG
• DRY BREAD CRUMBS
• PARMESAN CHEESE
• MILK
• ONION
• MILD ITALIAN SAUSAGE LINKS

Instructions for Italian Meatballs

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, and finely chopped onion. Mix until well combined.

Add the Sausage: Remove the Italian sausage from its casings and add it to the bread crumb mixture. Mix thoroughly until the sausage is evenly incorporated with the other ingredients.

Shape the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 20 meatballs, each about 1-2 inches in diameter. Arrange the meatballs on a shallow baking pan, spacing them evenly.

Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Serve: Serve the meatballs with your favorite sauce and spaghetti for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef or a mix of ground beef and pork for the Italian sausage. You may want to add some extra seasonings like garlic, fennel, or Italian herbs to maintain the flavor.

How do I store leftover meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

Can I add other ingredients to the meatball mixture?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like chopped fresh herbs (parsley or basil), minced garlic, or even finely chopped spinach to the meatball mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
To ensure the meatballs hold together, make sure to mix the ingredients well and avoid overworking the mixture. Chilling the meatballs for about 15 minutes before baking can also help them hold their shape.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes meal prep easier and more convenient.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of grated cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago, to vary the flavor.

For more recipes like this, try:

• Italian Meatball Soup
• One Pot Pasta and Meatballs
• Crock Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
• Simple Hawaiian Meatball Sub Sandwiches