Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLa LanternaHousemade Meatballs Recipe

Housemade Meatballs Recipe

Inspired by La Lanterna
Time45m
Serves4

Housemade meatballs in tomato sauce with ricotta and fresh basil.

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Ingredients

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Meatballs

Method

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Meatballs

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

  2. 2

    Form the Meatballs

    Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  3. 3

    Cook the Meatballs

    Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

  4. 4

    Prepare the Tomato Sauce

    In a large saucepan, add your favorite marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce. Bring it to a simmer.

  5. 5

    Combine Meatballs and Sauce

    Once the meatballs are cooked, gently place them in the simmering tomato sauce. Let them cook in the sauce for an additional 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

  6. 6

    Serve

    Spoon the meatballs and sauce onto a plate. Top with dollops of ricotta cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

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