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How Long to Bake Meatballs: An Authentic Italian Baked Meatballs Recipe

Meatballs are a beloved dish that transcends cultures, but few versions are as celebrated as the Italian baked meatball. These flavourful morsels, often simmered in rich tomato sauce, offer a delightful combination of taste and texture. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, in a sub sandwich, or as a cocktail party treat, knowing how long to bake meatballs is key to achieving perfectly cooked, succulent results.

Understanding the Basics of Meatball Baking

When making meatballs, the baking time can vary based on several factors, including the size of the meatballs, the type of meat used, and your specific oven. However, on average, Italian baked meatballs should be cooked at around 180°C (350°F) for approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

Tip: For more accuracy, you can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) to ensure safety and quality.

An Authentic Italian Baked Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

• 500g minced beef (or a mix of beef and pork for added flavour)
• 50g fresh breadcrumbs
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• 500ml passata (or a homemade tomato sauce)
• Basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat—this will help keep the meatballs tender.

3. Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, shape the mixture into balls approximately the size of a golf ball. This size ensures even cooking and a desirable texture.

4. Prepare a Baking Tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking. Arrange the meatballs on the tray, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even heat circulation.

5. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the meatballs. This will help them brown nicely and keep them moist.

6. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 25 to 30 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking. If a nice golden-brown colour is desired, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.

7. Serve: Once cooked through, remove the meatballs from the oven and allow them to sit for a few minutes. You can serve them over spaghetti, in a sub with melted cheese, or simply with a fresh salad. Top with fresh basil leaves for an authentic touch.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Meatballs

• Use Quality Meat: Opt for good-quality minced meat; a mix of beef and pork can impart a lovely flavour.
• Chilled Ingredients: Keep your ingredients, such as meat and eggs, chilled until you’re ready to mix. This helps maintain the texture of the meatballs.
• Don’t Overmix: Combine the ingredients just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to add other herbs or spices, such as thyme or red pepper flakes, to customize your meatballs to your liking.

Conclusion

Baked Italian meatballs are a delightful dish that showcases simple ingredients and traditional techniques. By following this recipe and the suggested baking time, you can create meatballs that are not only delicious but also perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on their own, in a comforting pasta dish, or even as a party appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress your family and friends. Happy baking!