Classic Meatballs in Marinara

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup Parmesan, grated
• 2 tbsp parsley, minced
• Salt, pepper
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• Spaghetti and Parmesan for serving

Method

1. Soak breadcrumbs in milk 5 min (panade — keeps meatballs moist).

2. Mix beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, salt, pepper. Don't overwork.

3. Form into 2-inch balls. Sear in oil until browned on all sides.

4. Add marinara. Simmer 20 min until cooked through.

5. Serve over spaghetti with Parmesan.

What You're Practicing

• The panade (bread soaked in milk) is the secret to tender meatballs — it prevents them from becoming dense.
• Don't overwork the mixture — handle gently like you would a burger.