When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a plate of homemade meatballs, and Dom DeLuise’s recipe takes this classic dish to a whole new level. Known for his larger-than-life personality and love for Italian cuisine, Dom shared his passion for cooking through recipes that feel like a warm hug. These meatballs are no exception—they’re tender, flavorful, and packed with the kind of nostalgia that makes every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients
To make Dom DeLuise’s famous meatballs, we’ll need a combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Gather the following items:
For the Meatball Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for a balance of fat and flavor)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style, depending on preference)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for optimal flavor)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 jar of marinara sauce (approximately 24 ounces, homemade or store-bought)
Optional Garnishes:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley
Ingredient Notes:
- Using fresh parsley instead of dried enhances the flavor and gives our meatballs a brighter, more aromatic quality.
- Breadcrumbs are essential for holding the meatballs together and keeping them tender. We recommend plain breadcrumbs if serving with a heavily seasoned marinara sauce.
- The combination of ground beef and pork is what gives these meatballs their signature richness. If desired, ground veal can be added for a trio of meats.
Equipment Needed
To recreate Dom DeLuise’s iconic meatball recipe, having the right tools on hand ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking process. Below is the list of essential equipment that we need, along with tips for their effective use.
Kitchen Tools and Utensils
- Mixing bowls (large and medium): Ideal for combining the meatball mixture and keeping everything well-mixed without spills. Use a large bowl for main ingredients and a medium one for breadcrumbs or seasonings.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to maintaining the balance of flavors. Keep dry and liquid measuring tools ready.
- Fork or whisk: For lightly beating eggs before adding to the mixture.
- Kitchen scale (optional): Ensures consistent meatball size for uniform cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps mix the ingredients gently without overworking the meat.
- Small ice cream scoop or tablespoon: Perfect for portioning evenly sized meatballs.
Cooking Essentials
- Large frying pan or skillet with lid: Essential for browning the meatballs and ensuring a flavorful crust. Choose one with a lid for simmering in sauce later.
- Tongs or spatula: To flip and handle meatballs carefully during cooking.
- Baking sheet or tray (optional): Use if baking meatballs instead of pan-frying. Line with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Miscellaneous
- Cutting board and knife: For finely chopping parsley and other fresh ingredients.
- Colander or fine mesh strainer: Ensures breadcrumbs are evenly sifted.
- Sauce pot: Required for simmering the marinara sauce or keeping extra sauce warm.
Handy Extras
For even greater efficiency in the kitchen:
- Kitchen gloves: Keeps hands clean while mixing or shaping the meatballs.
- Clean towel or paper towels: For drying utensils or blotting grease after frying.
- Storage container: Perfect for making ahead and storing meatballs in the refrigerator.
Directions
Let’s walk through Dom DeLuise’s iconic meatball recipe step by step. These directions ensure your meatballs turn out just as tender and flavorful as the original.
Prep
- Gather all your ingredients and kitchen tools listed in the previous section.
- Finely chop the fresh parsley and mince the garlic. Grate the fresh Parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.
- Divide your ingredients into the proper portions for easy assembly:
- Ground beef and pork placed in a large mixing bowl.
- Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and Italian herbs set aside for blending.
- Breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan in their own bowl.
- Preheat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring it warms evenly while you mix.
Tip: Preheat the oil to prevent sticking and achieve a golden crust on the meatballs.
Mixing The Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and seasonings.
- In a separate bowl, crack 2 large eggs. Beat them lightly using a fork or whisk.
- Add the beaten eggs to the meat mixture. Using your hands, mix gently until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatballs dense.
“The secret to tender meatballs lies in gentle mixing!”
Shaping The Meatballs
- Before shaping, wash and dry your hands or use kitchen gloves for cleanliness.
- Pinch off portions of the mixture the size of a golf ball (approximately 1 ½ inches in diameter).
- Roll the portions between your palms into smooth, compact balls. Place the shaped meatballs on a clean baking sheet or plate.
| Size | Diameter (inches) | Count (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Small-sized meatballs | 1 | 40-50 |
| Regular golf-ball size | 1 ½ | 25-30 |
| Larger Italian-style size | 2 ½ | 15-20 |
“Uniformly shaped meatballs cook evenly!”
Cooking The Meatballs
- Add the shaped meatballs to the preheated skillet with olive oil. Space them apart to prevent overcrowding.
- Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally using tongs or a spatula, for about 8-10 minutes until browned on all sides.
- Once browned, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs cook through for another 5 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
“For baked meatballs, arrange on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.”
Preparing The Sauce (Optional)
- Warm 3 cups of marinara sauce in a medium saucepot over low heat. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- For a richer flavor, sauté minced garlic and onion in olive oil before adding the marinara to the pot.
- Once the sauce is heated through, transfer the cooked meatballs into the sauce. Let them simmer together for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
Tips For Best Results
Creating Dom DeLuise’s Meatball Recipe is as much about technique as it is about the ingredients. Follow these expert tips to ensure your meatballs turn out tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.
1. Use a Meat Combo for Rich Flavor
The combination of ground beef and pork gives these meatballs their signature richness. Opt for a 70/30 beef-to-fat ratio for moist and flavorful results. Adding pork ensures an extra layer of juiciness. Avoid using lean-only meats, as they may result in dry meatballs.
2. Choose Fresh Ingredients
Freshness is the key to recreating this classic. We recommend using freshly grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped parsley, and minced garlic—the difference in aroma and taste is incredible. Pre-packaged equivalents won’t bring out the same vibrant flavors.
3. Handle with Care
When mixing the ingredients, gentle handling is critical. Knead just until combined to avoid compacting the meat mixture, which can make the meatballs dense. Think of it as lightly folding the ingredients instead of crushing them.
4. Consistency in Size
Shape the meatballs into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Use a cookie scoop or kitchen scale if possible to measure out equal portions. Aim for roughly 1.5-inch balls for a classic size, or adjust as needed. Uneven sizes may cook inconsistently.
| Measurement | Meatball Size Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Small (for appetizers) | 1 inch |
| Standard (for main dishes) | 1.5 inches |
| Large (for hearty meals) | 2 inches |
5. Avoid Over-Baking or Frying
For frying, heat the olive oil to medium-high and wait until it shimmers before adding the meatballs. Turn them gently to avoid over-browning. If baking, preheat the oven to 375°F and line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pull them out as soon as they are golden brown or reach an internal temperature of 160°F using a digital thermometer.
6. Rest After Cooking
Allow the meatballs to rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This step helps the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring moist and tender meatballs. Skipping this step can lead to dry texture when cut open.
7. Simmer in Marinara for Additional Flavor
While serving them on their own is delicious, simmering the cooked meatballs in a robust marinara sauce takes them to a whole new level. Let them gently simmer for 10–15 minutes to absorb the sauce’s flavors. Be careful not to over-simmer as it can cause disintegration.
8. Store and Reheat Like a Pro
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container, topped with marinara, for up to 3 days in the fridge or up to a month in the freezer. Reheat in the sauce on the stovetop or microwave gently until warmed through. Avoid high heat during reheating, as it can toughen the meatballs.
By prioritizing these tips, we can ensure each batch of Dom DeLuise’s meatballs is bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.
Make-Ahead And Storage Instructions
When it comes to Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe, preparing ahead and storing properly ensures convenience and preserves the rich flavors of this comforting dish. Let’s break down the make-ahead and storage process step-by-step for maximum ease and flavor retention.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the meatballs as directed but stop before cooking:
After mixing the ingredients and shaping the meatballs, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Chill for firmness:
Refrigerate the uncooked meatballs for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps them firm up for easier handling during cooking.
- Freezing for future use:
- Arrange the shaped meatballs on the baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Freeze for 2-3 hours until solid.
- Transfer the frozen meatballs to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label with the date for reference.
- For quick meals: We can freeze cooked meatballs by allowing them to cool completely after cooking, then following the same freezing steps.
Refrigeration and Short-Term Storage
For storing:
- Uncooked Meatballs: Place uncovered meatballs on a plate covered with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Cooked Meatballs: Let them cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing and Long-Term Storage
For freezing longevity, follow these tips:
| Storage Method | Storage Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Uncooked Meatballs | Up to 3 months | Best for convenience; cook straight from frozen for ease. |
| Cooked Meatballs | Up to 3 months | Reheat directly or with sauce to avoid drying out. |
Reheating Instructions
Bring stored meatballs back to their tender and juicy perfection with proper reheating:
- From the Refrigerator:
- Place cooked meatballs in a saucepan with marinara sauce.
- Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- From the Freezer:
- For uncooked meatballs: Cook from frozen by baking at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or pan-frying until browned and fully cooked.
- For cooked meatballs: Simmer in sauce over low heat for 20-25 minutes or bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed.
“Creating extras to freeze ensures we always have some of Dom DeLuise’s classic meatballs on hand for any occasion—quick meals or last-minute guests!”
By following these make-ahead and storage instructions, we ensure every meatball bursts with freshness and flavor, whether freshly cooked or reheated from storage.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Dom DeLuise’s meatballs, the possibilities are endless. These tender, flavorful morsels work beautifully in a variety of dishes, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Here are a few crowd-pleasing suggestions to showcase these iconic meatballs at their best:
Classic Pairings
- Spaghetti and Meatballs: Serve the meatballs over a bed of al dente spaghetti with a generous ladle of marinara sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped parsley for a restaurant-quality finish.
- Sub Sandwich: Tuck the meatballs into a toasted hoagie roll, top with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Place under the broiler for a couple of minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly crust.
Comfort Food Favorites
- Polenta or Mashed Potatoes: Serve the meatballs on a creamy base of polenta or buttery mashed potatoes. The texture contrasts perfectly with the meatballs’ richness.
- Rice or Couscous: Pair the meatballs with steamed white rice, herbed couscous, or even quinoa for a lighter, filling option.
Appetizer Ideas
- Party Skewers: Serve bite-sized meatballs on skewers with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Provide marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
- Cocktail Meatballs: Offer miniature meatballs in a slow cooker with a tangy tomato glaze or sweet-and-savory sauce for easy entertaining.
Family-Style Dishes
- Baked Casseroles: Layer the meatballs with pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese, then bake until bubbly. It’s a comforting dish that serves a crowd.
- Stuffed Peppers: Use the meatballs as a stuffing for hollowed-out bell peppers, add sauce on top, and bake to perfection.
Table of Serving Ideas
| Serving Idea | Accompaniments | Occasions |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti and Meatballs | Marinara, Parmesan, parsley | Family dinners, comfort meals |
| Meatball Sub | Mozzarella, hoagie rolls, broiled finish | Lunch, casual gatherings |
| Party Skewers | Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, marinara for dipping | Appetizers, parties |
| Baked Casserole | Pasta, cheese, marinara | Potlucks, weeknight dinners |
| Cocktail Meatballs | Tangy glaze or savory sauce | Entertaining, appetizers |
Garnishes and Sides
Enhance the presentation and flavor by adding complementary garnishes or side dishes:
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped basil, parsley, or a sprinkle of oregano.
- Cheese: A light dusting of extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of smoked provolone.
- Garlic Bread or Focaccia: Serve alongside for dipping into marinara or soaking up sauces.
- Salad: Balance the meatballs’ richness with a crisp Caesar salad or a fresh arugula mix topped with lemon vinaigrette.
Pro Tip:
To maintain the meatballs’ tender texture and rich flavor, always reheat them in a gentle simmer of marinara or broth before serving for optimal moisture.
Conclusion
Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and tradition. By focusing on fresh ingredients, proper techniques, and thoughtful preparation, we can recreate this iconic recipe in our own kitchens. Whether you’re serving them over spaghetti, in a hearty sub, or as a party appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress. With the right tips and storage methods, they’re perfect for any occasion, bringing a touch of Italian warmth to every meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of meat is best for Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe?
A combination of ground beef and pork is recommended for the best flavor and richness. The mix ensures a tender and juicy texture while adding depth to the meatballs’ taste.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
While dried parsley can be used, fresh parsley is highly recommended for brighter flavor and a more authentic taste. Fresh herbs enhance the overall quality of the meatballs.
Should meatballs be baked or pan-fried?
Both methods work well. Baking is less messy and healthier, while pan-frying offers a golden crust. Choose based on your preference and available time.
What is the key to ensuring tender meatballs?
Handle the meat mixture gently and avoid overmixing. Mix the ingredients just until combined, and use beaten eggs and breadcrumbs to achieve a tender texture.
Can I freeze Dom DeLuise’s meatballs?
Yes, both uncooked and cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure they are stored in airtight containers or freezer bags for maximum freshness.
How long can cooked meatballs last in the refrigerator?
Cooked meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them with marinara sauce or broth for the best results.
What is a delicious way to serve Dom DeLuise’s meatballs?
Serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce, in a meatball sub topped with melted cheese, or as appetizers in a tangy glaze. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
How do I reheat frozen meatballs?
Frozen meatballs can be reheated in marinara sauce over low heat on the stovetop, in the oven, or in the microwave. Ensure they are heated thoroughly for tender and juicy results.
Are breadcrumbs necessary for this recipe?
Yes, breadcrumbs are crucial for binding and maintaining the meatballs’ tender texture. Opt for plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely. Chill uncooked meatballs in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze them for up to 3 months. This makes meal preparation more convenient.