Skillet Meatballs Recipe

Cook Time: 14 minutes

Classic Beef Meatballs

Ingredients (for 5 servings):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk (or as needed)
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 onion
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, beat the egg and add 1 tablespoon of milk. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs and let the mixture sit for 1 minute to soften slightly. Then, add the ground beef.
2. Place the onion in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Add the chopped onion, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper to the ground beef mixture.
3. Using clean, gloved hands, mix everything together gently. If the mixture feels too tough, add 1 tablespoon of milk to soften it.
4. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs.
5. Heat the oil and butter in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook, turning and moving the meatballs around every 2-3 minutes to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
6. Continue cooking the meatballs for 10-14 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed, until they are browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach at least 160F (71C). You may need to cook the meatballs in batches.
7. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a foil-lined drip tray.
8. Serve the meatballs with pasta and sauce if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 425
• Total Fat: 31g (40% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 11g (53% DV)
• Cholesterol: 135mg (45% DV)
• Sodium: 476mg (21% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 6g (2% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (2% DV)
• Total Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 28g (56% DV)
• Vitamin C: 0mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 91mg (7% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (17% DV)
• Potassium: 405mg (9% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Skillet Meatballs

Skillet meatballs are a modern twist on a timeless dish that has roots stretching back to multiple cultures. The concept of combining ground meat with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings has existed for centuries in Europe and the Middle East. Italian immigrants brought their version of meatballs to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which evolved into a quick, skillet-friendly recipe perfect for home kitchens. Cooking meatballs in a skillet allows for a crisp, caramelized exterior while keeping the interior juicy, making it a practical adaptation for busy households.

Regional Variations

Although skillet meatballs are commonly associated with American cuisine today, regional touches vary widely. In the United States, they are often paired with pasta and marinara sauce, reflecting Italian-American influence. In Scandinavian countries, skillet meatballs may include a mix of beef and pork, served with creamy sauces and lingonberry jam. In the Middle East, spiced meatballs may incorporate cumin, coriander, and fresh herbs. Each region adapts the basic meatball concept to local flavors and ingredients, creating unique and memorable variations.

How They Differ from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional baked or simmered meatballs, skillet meatballs are pan-fried, giving them a distinct texture and flavor. The combination of butter and oil in the skillet promotes browning and a rich taste that is less achievable through baking alone. While meatloaf, another ground meat dish, shares similar ingredients, meatballs are smaller, more versatile, and often served as appetizers, in sandwiches, or as part of a main course. Skillet meatballs also differ from Italian polpette in that they are frequently cooked individually in a shallow pan rather than simmered gently in sauce.

Typical Serving Occasions

Skillet meatballs are highly versatile and appear in both casual and formal settings. At home, they are commonly served with pasta, rice, or vegetables for weeknight dinners. Restaurants may present them as appetizers, often accompanied by dipping sauces or garnishes. During holidays or family gatherings, skillet meatballs are popular as finger foods or part of buffet-style meals, prized for their ease of preparation and broad appeal.

Interesting Facts

• Skillet meatballs can be made with various types of meat, including beef, pork, chicken, or turkey, making them adaptable for different dietary preferences.
• The addition of panko breadcrumbs creates a lighter texture than traditional breadcrumbs, which helps the meatballs stay tender while maintaining a crisp exterior.
• Despite their simplicity, skillet meatballs are considered a comfort food in many cultures, often evoking memories of home-cooked meals and family traditions.
• The cooking method in a skillet allows home cooks to control browning and seasoning precisely, making this version a favorite for those who prefer hands-on cooking techniques.
• Skillet meatballs are not only delicious but also highly customizable, allowing the addition of cheese, herbs, spices, or sauces to suit personal taste preferences.

FAQ about Skillet Meatballs Recipe

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