Few comfort foods are as satisfying as a plate of homemade meatballs. Whether served over pasta, tucked into a sandwich, or enjoyed on their own, learning how to make a meatball from scratch is the key to creating a versatile family favorite.
While many recipes call for a single type of meat, combining beef and pork creates meatballs that are especially flavorful, tender, and juicy. The rich flavor of beef pairs perfectly with the tenderness and subtle sweetness of pork, creating a classic dish that’s hard to beat. Here’s everything you need to know about making delicious homemade meatballs with beef and pork from Coleman All-Natural Meats.
Why Use Both Beef and Pork?
The secret to exceptional meatballs is balance.
Ground beef provides:
- Rich, savory flavor
- Hearty texture
- Classic meatball taste
Ground pork adds:
- Tenderness
- Moisture
- Additional flavor depth
Together, they create a meatball that stays juicy while delivering the satisfying texture people expect.
Ingredients for Homemade Beef and Pork Meatballs
Meatballs
- 1 pound Coleman All Natural Ground Beef
- 1 pound Coleman All Natural Ground Pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional for Serving
- Marinara sauce
- Cooked pasta
- Fresh basil
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the liquid.
Add the ground beef, ground pork, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Mix gently until everything is just combined.
Pro Tip
Avoid overmixing. Working the meat too much can result in dense, tough meatballs. Use your hands and mix only until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into balls approximately 1½ inches in diameter.
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each meatball.
This recipe makes approximately 24 meatballs.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Oven Method (Recommended)
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Bake the meatballs for 18–22 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
The oven method allows the meatballs to cook evenly while maintaining their shape.
Stovetop Method
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil.
Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally until browned on all sides and cooked through.
Step 4: Simmer in Sauce
For even more flavor, transfer the cooked meatballs to a pot of warm marinara sauce.
Allow them to simmer for 10–15 minutes before serving.
The sauce helps keep the meatballs moist while infusing them with additional flavor.
Tips for the Best Homemade Meatballs
Don’t Skip the Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs help retain moisture and create a softer texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese can make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Keep the Mixture Cold
Cold meat is easier to handle and helps the meatballs maintain their shape while cooking.
Check the Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach 160°F for safe consumption.
What to Serve with Meatballs
Homemade meatballs pair well with a variety of dishes:
- Spaghetti and marinara
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Creamy polenta
- Meatball subs
- Zucchini noodles
- Rice bowls
They’re also perfect for meal prep and make delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Can You Freeze Homemade Meatballs?
Absolutely.
Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Frozen meatballs can be stored for up to three months and reheated as needed, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Start with Quality Meat
Great meatballs start with great ingredients. Using high-quality beef and pork helps create the rich flavor and tender texture that make homemade meatballs memorable.
Coleman All Natural Ground Beef and Ground Pork are raised with care and never given antibiotics, providing a delicious foundation for family-favorite recipes like this one.
The Bottom Line
Learning how to make a meatball using a custom blend of beef and pork is easier than you might think. By combining the bold flavor of beef with the natural tenderness of pork from Coleman All-Natural Meats, you can create juicy, flavorful meatballs that are perfect for pasta night, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.
With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, you’ll have a classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.
