Italian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and comforting dishes. In this collection of 8 Easy Italian Dinner Recipes, you’ll find a variety of delicious meals that are perfect for any night of the week. From classic Italian meatballs to savory pizza rolls and decadent tiramisu, these recipes are sure to become family favorites. Whether you’re craving something hearty and filling or light and refreshing, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Ingredients for Italian Meatballs
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
How to Make Italian Meatballs
Making the Meatballs:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Making the Sauce:
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a large skillet, combine the marinara sauce and beef broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add Meatballs: Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Italian meatballs over cooked pasta or on a hoagie roll for a delicious meatball sub.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the base of the meatballs, providing a savory and meaty flavor. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are used as a binder in the meatballs, helping to hold the mixture together. They also add texture to the meatballs.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a rich and salty flavor to the meatballs. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright and fresh flavor to the meatballs. It also adds a pop of color to the dish.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Garlic powder and onion powder add additional flavor to the meatballs, enhancing the savory taste.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatball mixture together.
Marinara Sauce: Marinara sauce is used as the base for the sauce, providing a rich and tomatoey flavor.
Beef Broth: Beef broth adds depth of flavor to the sauce, making it richer and more savory.
These Italian Meatballs are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve them as a main course with pasta or on a sub roll for a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this classic Italian dish!
