Want to know the secrets behind those impossibly tender, juicy meatballs you remember from Sunday dinners? We’re sharing 10 Nonna-approved meatball recipes that’ll have everyone begging for seconds! From classic veal polpette to unexpected breakfast twists, each recipe carries generations of wisdom (and a few modern tricks 😉). Grab your apron – it’s time to make some memories!
Traditional Italian Polpette
These authentic polpette combine the richness of ground beef with the tenderness of pork for the ultimate Italian meatball experience. The blend of traditional seasonings and proven techniques results in meatballs that are consistently tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe → Traditional Italian Polpette
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
These lighter-than-air chicken meatballs have converted even the most dedicated beef-only meatball lovers in our family. Our biggest complaint was that we couldn’t stop eating them.
Get the Recipe → Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Perfect Pork Meatballs
These make-ahead pork meatballs have saved our dinner prep stress more times than we can count. We’ve discovered the perfect spice blend in the Girl Carnivore Meat Lab that makes these taste even better the next day.
Get the Recipe → Perfect Pork Meatballs
One-Pan Meatball Stroganoff
This comfort food mashup has become our most requested weeknight dinner, combining the best of Italian meatballs with creamy Russian stroganoff. The secret to speeding up dinner lies in our using pre-made meatballs that stay tender even after simmering in the sauce.
Get the Recipe → One-Pan Meatball Stroganoff
Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs
Not sure when to use ground lamb? The answer is now. These light little meatballs make a perfect appetizer next to creamy hummus and tzatziki that has everyone begging for the recipe.
Get the Recipe → Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs
Smoky Italian Meatballs
These pellet-smoked meatballs have become the most requested recipe at our family gatherings, combining traditional Italian seasonings with modern smoky flavor. The neighbors won’t stop asking for our secret to getting that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Get the Recipe → Smoky Italian Meatballs
Ginger Turkey Meatballs
These aren’t your average turkey meatballs – our secret ingredient makes sure they stay as juicy as their beef counterparts. Great on their own, we love popping them into soup for the ultimate comfort food on cold days.
Get the Recipe → Ginger Turkey Meatballs
Cumin-Spiced Lamb Meatballs
The marriage of Italian technique with Mexican flavors makes these lamb meatballs vanish whenever we serve them. The chimichurri drizzle adds a fresh kick that had our recipe testers fighting over the last bite.
Get the Recipe → Cumin-Spiced Lamb Meatballs
Italian Veal Meatballs
These delicate veal meatballs achieve a level of tenderness that’s nearly impossible to match with other meats, while fresh herbs and garlic create layers of classic Italian flavor. The light texture and rich taste make these meatballs perfect for serving over pasta or as elegant appetizers.
Get the Recipe → Italian Veal Meatballs
Maple Breakfast Meatball Mac & Cheese
Just when you thought breakfast couldn’t get more exciting, we created this indulgent maple meatball mac that’s been breaking the internet. The combination of cherry maple meatballs with creamy four-cheese sauce has made this our most saved breakfast recipe ever.
Get the Recipe → Maple Breakfast Meatball Mac
