Maggiano'S Meatball Recipe

Ingredients

• Ground beef, 1 pound, Use 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
• Ground pork, 1/2 pound, Freshly ground preferred
• Italian breadcrumbs, 3/4 cup, For binding
• Milk, 1/2 cup, Whole milk for moisture
• Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup, Finely grated
• Eggs, 2 large, Lightly beaten
• Garlic, 3 cloves, Minced
• Fresh parsley, 1/4 cup, Finely chopped
• Salt, 1 teaspoon, Adjust to taste
• Black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon, Freshly ground
• Red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon, Optional, for mild heat
• Olive oil, 2 tablespoons, Extra virgin for best flavor
• Onion, 1 medium, Finely diced
• Garlic, 4 cloves, Minced
• Crushed tomatoes, 28 ounces (1 can), High-quality canned tomatoes
• Tomato paste, 2 tablespoons, Concentrates tomato flavor
• Sugar, 1 tablespoon, Balances acidity
• Dried oregano, 1 teaspoon
• Fresh basil, 6 leaves, Chopped
• Fresh basil leaves — for a bright, herbal aroma
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese — adds a salty richness
• Crusty Italian bread — perfect for dipping in sauce
• Chopped fresh parsley — to sprinkle for color and freshness