Who doesn’t crave a taste of Italy now and then? Olive Garden, a staple in Italian-American dining, has been serving up comfort on a plate with its legendary meatballs for years.
But what if you could recreate that restaurant magic in your own kitchen? Today, let’s make our version of the recipe that promises to transport your tastebuds straight to the heart of Italy without stepping outside your door.
Nutritional Balance of Meatballs
Meatballs offer more than just rich flavors—they can also contribute valuable nutrients to your diet. Primarily, meatballs are a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function, with a single 3-ounce serving providing a substantial portion of the daily protein requirement.
Ground beef, often a primary ingredient in meatballs, is also rich in other essential nutrients. It provides vitamins like B12 and minerals such as zinc and iron, which are crucial for immune health and energy production. (ref)
Additionally, incorporating vegetables and whole grains into the meatball mix can enhance their fiber content, making them even more nutritious and well-rounded as part of a balanced meal.
However, it’s essential to be mindful of the fat and sodium content. Meatballs can be high in saturated fats and sodium, which, if consumed in excess, might increase the risk of heart disease and hypertension. (ref)
Opting for leaner meats and watching portion sizes can help mitigate these concerns, ensuring that you can enjoy meatballs as a part of a healthy diet. Baking or grilling are recommended cooking methods to reduce fat content, while homemade versions allow for better control over ingredients and sodium levels.
While meatballs can be an indulgent treat, they can also fit into a health-conscious diet when prepared thoughtfully with attention to ingredients and cooking methods.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs
To ensure your meatballs are just as good as (if not better than) those you’d find at Olive Garden, consider these chef-approved tips:
- Chill Before Cooking: Letting your meat mixture rest in the fridge for an hour can improve the texture and flavor infusion.
- Uniformity is Key: Consistent size is crucial for even cooking. Using an ice cream scoop can help you get uniform meatballs every time.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until your ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Copycat Olive Garden Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs ground beef preferably chuck
- ½ lb ground pork
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs plus more if needed
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ⅛ tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- ¼ cup red wine preferably Chianti
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated or powdered
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
For Serving:
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese grated or powdered
- 1 tsp parsley chopped
Instructions
- Prepare: Preheat your oven to 360°F (182°C). Grease a roasting tray with cooking spray.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, eggs, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, parsley, red wine, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and place in the refrigerator to marinate for about an hour.
- Form Meatballs: After chilling, shape the mixture into meatballs using your hands or an ice cream scoop for consistency.
- Bake: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared tray and bake in the oven for about 35 minutes, or until they’re cooked through.
- Serve: Warm the marinara sauce and pour it over the meatballs. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and parsley before serving.
Nutrition
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.