Italian Sausage Meatballs Recipe

Discover the ultimate Italian Sausage Meatballs Recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Made with flavorful ground sausage, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, these easy homemade meatballs are baked to perfection for a juicy, tender texture. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, in a sandwich, or as a party appetizer, these versatile meatballs are sure to impress. Plus, explore tips for achieving the perfect meatballs, gluten-free options, and delicious variations to suit any taste. Make this classic Italian comfort food part of your regular recipe rotation!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground sausage
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup lukewarm water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Gradually add the lukewarm water, a few tablespoons at a time, mixing with your hands until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. The mixture should be very moist but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled.
3. Form the Meatballs: Use an ice cream scoop or a large spoon to portion out approximately one tablespoon of the mixture. Roll it between your palms to form a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and golden brown.
5. Serve: Toss the cooked meatballs with your favorite sauce and serve immediately. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these meatballs are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
• Versatile: Pair them with pasta, serve them in sandwiches, or enjoy them on their own as a delicious appetizer.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sausage, Parmesan, and garlic ensures every bite is bursting with savory goodness.

Tips

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the ingredients can make the meatballs dense and tough. Mix just until combined.
• Uniform Sizes: Use a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop to ensure all meatballs are the same size, which helps them cook evenly.
• Line Your Baking Sheet: Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for fully cooked meatballs.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Meats: Swap the sausage for ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs.
• Spices: Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze these meatballs?
A: Absolutely! Once cooked and cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Q: Can I cook these on the stovetop instead of baking?
A: Yes! Heat a skillet with a bit of oil and cook the meatballs over medium heat, turning frequently, until browned and fully cooked.

Q: How do I make these meatballs dairy-free?
A: Replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.

Serving and Suggestions

• With Pasta: Serve the meatballs over spaghetti or fettuccine with marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal.
• In a Sub: Use the meatballs in a toasted hoagie roll with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce for a hearty sandwich.
• As Appetizers: Serve with toothpicks and a side of marinara or garlic aioli for dipping.
• Meal Prep: Make a large batch and freeze portions for quick, ready-to-eat meals during the week.