Meatballs

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of making delicious meatballs, inspired by the Cooking with Big Frank video. Whether you're preparing a family meal or looking to impress guests, this recipe is simple and satisfying.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. You'll need:

• Ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
• Bread crumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Egg
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Italian seasoning or herbs for extra flavor

Practical Tips

• Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
• Adjust the type of meat based on your preference for taste and texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Follow these steps to create the meatball mixture:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • 1 pound of ground meat
   • 1 cup of bread crumbs
   • 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
   • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
   • 2 cloves of minced garlic
   • 1 beaten egg
   • Salt and pepper to taste
2. Mix all the ingredients well using your hands or a spatula until everything is evenly combined.

Practical Advice

• Don’t overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. Just mix until everything is combined.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Now that your mixture is ready, shape the meatballs:

1. Take a portion of the mixture (about the size of a golf ball).
2. Roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball.
3. Place each meatball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Make sure the meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
• Avoid packing the meatballs too tightly.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

You can cook the meatballs in various ways. Here are two popular methods:

Oven Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet.
3. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned.

Stovetop Searing

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil.
2. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve made delicious meatballs that can be served with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own. Feel free to experiment with various sauces or sides to complement your dish. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t hesitate to try different herbs and spices to customize your meatballs to your taste!