Bobby Flay’s Italian Meatball Recipe

Bobby Flay’s Italian Meatball Recipe delivers a perfect balance of tenderness, flavor, and richness. These meatballs are made with a blend of beef and pork, simmered in a savory tomato sauce, and finished with fresh basil and Parmesan. Whether served over pasta or with crusty bread, this dish is a true Italian-American classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic and flavorful: Uses high-quality ingredients for a restaurant-worthy taste.
• Perfectly tender meatballs: The breadcrumb and milk mixture ensures soft, juicy meatballs.
• Rich homemade sauce: A simple yet delicious tomato sauce complements the meatballs beautifully.
• Versatile serving options: Serve with pasta, as a sandwich filling, or on its own.
• Make-ahead friendly: Both the meatballs and sauce can be prepared in advance for easy meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (or panko)
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Olive oil, for frying

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan, for serving

Directions

Make the Meatballs:

1. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk, letting them soak for 5 minutes.
2. Add ground beef, ground pork, eggs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and set aside.

Cook the Meatballs:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the meatballs in batches until golden on all sides (about 5 minutes).
3. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the onion until soft (3-4 minutes).
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine & Simmer:

1. Gently place the browned meatballs into the sauce.
2. Cover and let them simmer for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked, stirring occasionally.
3. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve & Enjoy:

1. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
• Cheesy Addition: Add cubes of mozzarella to the center of each meatball for a gooey surprise.
• Turkey Option: Substitute turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• No-Fry Method: Bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
• Chunky Sauce: Add diced tomatoes or roasted bell peppers for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

What’s the best pasta to serve with these meatballs?

Spaghetti, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best to hold the sauce and complement the meatballs.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?

Yes, but fresh breadcrumbs provide better texture. If using store-bought, opt for panko for extra lightness.

How do I make the sauce smoother?

Use an immersion blender to puree the sauce for a smoother consistency.

What is the best way to reheat meatballs?

Simmer them in the sauce over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free milk and omit Parmesan, or substitute with a plant-based alternative.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of red wine can enhance the sauce’s depth of flavor. Let it cook down before adding the tomatoes.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Avoid overmixing the meat mixture and ensure the breadcrumbs are well soaked before combining.

Can I make mini meatballs for appetizers?

Yes, roll smaller meatballs and reduce cooking time accordingly. Serve with toothpicks and extra sauce for dipping.

Conclusion

Bobby Flay’s Italian Meatball Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, classic flavors. These meatballs are tender, juicy, and simmered in a rich tomato sauce, making them a versatile dish for any meal. Whether served with pasta, bread, or on their own, they are sure to impress. Try this recipe for your next dinner and enjoy a homemade Italian-American favorite!