Oh how I love this recipe. Pasta (traditionally spaghetti) and Meatballs can bring a family together in no time.

This is our super secret recipe that needs to be shared.

It started with a basic Provenzano family meatball recipe. But just like anything else the recipe has evolved. The basics are still there, I just modified some things that fit our family’s taste.

For example I like to use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs. Instead of Parmigiano I use Toscana Romano Cheese. Sometimes I like to saute the meatballs with olive oil that has a couple of drops of truffle oil.

The other key thing that is just a basic part of the family recipe is the meat. We have always used half beef and half pork. It makes a big difference. I like the meatballs to hold together but still stay tender and moist. I think you get that with the beef and pork combination.

NOTE: I have also included the basic red sauce for the meatballs.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

For Meatballs:
1/2 Pound of beef
1/2 Pound of pork
1/2 Cup of chopped onion
1/2 Cup of chopped celery
1/4 Cup of chopped fresh parsley
2 Teaspoons of minced garlic
1 Teaspoon of Fine sea salt
3 Tablespoons of granted Toscana Romana Cheese or you can use Parmigiano
1/2 Cup of panko breadcrumbs
1 Egg

For Red Sauce:
1 Small White Onion Finely Chopped
Salt & Pepper to taste
3 Chicken Bouillon Cubes
2 each 28 ounce Cans of Chefs Cut or chopped Tomatoes (San Marzano Tomatoes)
1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Preparation

Meatball Preparation:
1. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl
2. Form the meat into balls and set aside on parchment paper
3. Add olive oil to the saute pan with about 1 teaspoon of truffle oil (white for summer, black for winter)
4. In batches begin to brown all of the meatballs on all sides (while you are doing this start the red sauce recipe below)

5. Place the meatballs on paper towels to drain as you continue to work with each batch

6. Next add the meatballs to your sauce to let them finish cooking.

Red Sauce Preparation:
1. Add the onions and saute over moderate heat (sweat them until they are translucent).
2. Add the 2 Cans of Tomatoes and mix together
3. Add the Chicken Bouillon Cubes
4. Bring the sauce to a boil
5. Add the meatballs and incorporate them in the sauce
6. Reduce the heat to low an simmer covered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally as needed

Before serving check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Toss with your preferred pasta. I like to use Capellini also labeled as Angel Hair.

Related posts:

1. An Italian American Dish: Spaghetti and Meatballs
2. Pasta Shells Sausage Tomatoes and Cream
3. Italian Fried Chicken: Pollo Fritto alla Toscana
4. An Italian Snack: Cannellini Dip and Parmigiano Pita Chips
5. French County Classic: Beef Bourguignon