Marys Pizza Shack Style Meatballs

There is something magical about Marys Pizza Shack Style Meatballs The moment they hit the sauce and fill the kitchen with that irresistible aroma it brings me back to cozy family dinners and laughter around the table These are the kind of meatballs that melt into a classic marinara or star on their own as crowd pleasing appetizers full of savory herbs and rich flavors

I first made these meatballs for a birthday party and the platter was empty within minutes My friends still ask for the recipe at every get together

Ingredients

• Ground beef: With an eighty to twenty fat ratio gives the meatballs depth and richness Look for beef with good marbling for the juiciest results
• Ground pork: Lends extra succulence and flavor to the mix Use fresh pork that is light pink with a mild aroma
• Parmesan cheese: Finely grated provides savory umami flavor Choose real Parmigiano Reggiano for best taste
• Whole milk: Moistens the bread crumbs and adds richness Use full fat milk for tender texture
• Fresh breadcrumbs: Soak up the milk letting the meatballs stay moist inside Day old white bread works beautifully
• Large eggs: Bind everything together Choose fresh farm eggs for best flavor and structure
• Yellow onion: Finely chopped brings gentle sweetness and moisture Use a sharp knife for a small dice to avoid big chunks
• Garlic: Minced gives the traditional Italian aroma Always crush or finely mince for the best release of flavor
• Italian parsley: Chopped fresh adds green freshness and color Use leafy stems for extra vibrancy
• Basil: Fresh or dried supply subtle herbal lift Fresh is more aromatic if available
• Kosher salt: Enhances every ingredient Use a high quality salt for seasoning control
• Black pepper: Freshly ground brightens up the savory notes Grind to order for zesty freshness
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Add a gentle heat Optional adjust to taste for extra warmth
• Olive oil: For browning adding a golden crust to the meatballs Use a fruity extra virgin oil if you can
• Tomato sauce: Good quality either homemade or a trusted jarred brand creates a perfect simmer bath Pick one with clean simple ingredients

Instructions

Soak the Breadcrumbs:

Pour the whole milk over the fresh breadcrumbs in a small bowl Let them sit for five minutes until they soak up the liquid and soften into a damp paste The soaking process is vital for tender meatballs

Mix the Meatball Base:

Combine ground beef ground pork the softened breadcrumbs eggs Parmesan finely chopped onion minced garlic parsley basil salt black pepper and red pepper flakes in a large mixing bowl Mix with clean hands using a light touch Gently stir until the mixture just comes together Overmixing makes meatballs dense

Shape the Meatballs:

Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into golf ball sized meatballs each about two inches across Arrange them evenly on a tray or baking sheet Damp hands prevent sticking

Brown the Meatballs:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Once hot add the meatballs in batches Brown them on all sides turning gently This should take about five minutes per batch Proper browning locks in moisture and builds craveable flavor

Simmer in Sauce:

Using tongs transfer the browned meatballs into a pot filled with tomato sauce Ensure they are nestled in the sauce so they cook evenly Cover and simmer on low for twenty to twenty five minutes The slow simmer softens and infuses each meatball with sauce

Serve and Enjoy:

Carefully spoon the finished meatballs and plenty of sauce onto plated pasta into toasted rolls or present them in a bowl as appetizers Top with extra Parmesan if you like

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I always look forward to adding the fresh parsley The bright herbal aroma it releases reminds me of helping my grandmother roll meatballs as a kid Those green flecks make each bite extra special

Storage Tips

Leftover meatballs and sauce cool beautifully then store for up to four days in the fridge Use airtight containers to lock in flavor For longer storage freeze meatballs and sauce in labeled bags or containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap half the beef for ground turkey if you want lighter meatballs For gluten free diets use gluten free breadcrumbs Try pecorino cheese instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste If you have only dried herbs reduce the quantity by one third and rub them between your fingers to revive the aroma

Serving Suggestions

Nestle these meatballs into spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a dinner that feels like a hug Layer them into a toasted sub roll with mozzarella for a classic meatball sandwich Serve on cocktail picks with a sprinkle of parsley as hearty appetizers at a party

Cultural and Historical Context

Marys Pizza Shack style meatballs highlight the Italian American way of cooking marrying old world herbs with hearty family flavor In many Italian American homes recipes for meatballs are passed down through the generations Each family puts its own spin on the seasonings or sauce It is a dish that tells the story of comfort and community

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer swap parsley and basil for chopped fresh oregano or chives For fall add a pinch of ground nutmeg for a cozy undertone During winter use a richer tomato sauce or add a pinch of chili flakes for warmth

Success Stories

One reader told me they made a double batch for their teens basketball team and not a single meatball was left behind Others love prepping them ahead for holiday meals or Sunday pasta Suppers like this bring people together

Freezer Meal Conversion

After browning let meatballs cool fully Then freeze on a baking tray Once solid transfer to bags or containers When ready to eat drop frozen meatballs into simmering sauce and cook an extra ten minutes for a quick homemade dinner anytime

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Bring the spirit of Marys Pizza Shack to your own table with these tender herb packed meatballs Their aroma and flavor are sure to make every meal memorable

Recipe FAQs

→ What meat blend gives the best texture?

Using a mix of ground beef (80/20) and ground pork results in tender, flavorful meatballs with balanced richness.

→ Can breadcrumbs be substituted for gluten-free diets?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cakes for a similar binding effect and texture.

→ What herbs create an authentic taste?

Fresh parsley and basil are classic choices; dried basil also works for added depth in the meatball mixture.

→ How do I prevent tough meatballs?

Don't overmix the meat and other ingredients. Gentle mixing preserves tenderness and moisture.

→ Is it possible to freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! Browned meatballs freeze well and can be reheated in tomato sauce for quick future meals.

→ Which sauce pairs best?

Classic tomato sauce complements the herbs and meat, but a splash of red wine adds wonderful depth.