We’ve always been fans of Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe a Hollywood icon’s take on Italian-American comfort food that brings big flavor to the table. This hearty dish draws from DeLuise’s Sicilian roots offering juicy meatballs packed with herbs and spices that make every bite memorable.
As food lovers we can’t wait to share our twist on this classic ensuring it’s simple yet irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a nostalgic treat these meatballs deliver that perfect blend of tradition and taste.
Ingredients
In our exploration of Dom DeLuise’s iconic meatball recipe, we focus on the fresh, herb-infused ingredients that capture the essence of Italian-American tradition while adding our simple twist for maximum flavor. Below, we list the ingredients in the order we’ll use them, with precise measurements and prep notes to ensure your meatballs turn out juicy and aromatic.
Meat and Binding Agents
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean for the perfect balance of fat and flavor – we’ll start by combining this as the base)
- ½ pound ground pork (adds richness and tenderness – mix in next for that authentic Sicilian depth)
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs (use panko for a lighter texture if preferred – we’ll soak these in milk to keep the meatballs moist)
Flavor Enhancers
- 2 large eggs (beaten lightly – these bind everything together, so we’ll incorporate them after the meats)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best melt and tang – stir in to boost the savory notes)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (finely chopped for a burst of green, herbaceous brightness – we’ll add this with other herbs for that classic Italian kick)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced to release its pungent aroma – include after the herbs for even distribution)
- 1 small onion (finely diced – sauté briefly if you want to mellow its sharpness before adding)
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon salt (kosher preferred for better control – season to taste as we mix)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for a spicy edge – blend in with the salt)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (crushed between your fingers for intensified flavor – we’ll use this to echo DeLuise’s heritage)
- ¼ cup whole milk (for soaking the breadcrumbs – this step ensures the meatballs stay succulent)
These ingredients yield about 24 meatballs, making them ideal for a family dinner or casual gathering. For nutritional breakdown, we’ve compiled the key stats in the table below:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4 meatballs) | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 20g | 26% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands used.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Dom DeLuise meatball recipe to life after gathering those fresh, herb-infused ingredients, we need a few essential tools that make preparation straightforward and efficient. These items help us mix, shape, and cook the meatballs with precision, ensuring juicy, flavorful results every time.
Here’s a curated list of the key equipment:
- Large mixing bowl: We use this to thoroughly combine the ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, allowing for even distribution and easy mixing without spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our recipe’s balance, so these help us precisely measure ingredients like garlic, onion, and herbs.
- Baking sheet or tray: Ideal for baking the meatballs in the oven, this ensures they cook evenly and develop a golden crust while keeping cleanup simple.
- Parchment paper or silicone mat: Optional but recommended for lining the baking sheet, it prevents sticking and makes transferring the cooked meatballs effortless.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: We rely on this for stirring and scraping the bowl, helping us achieve that perfect meatball texture.
- Oven or skillet: Depending on our cooking method, an oven bakes them to tender perfection, while a skillet offers a quick sear for added flavor.
With this equipment ready, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, making our Dom DeLuise meatballs a hit for any gathering.
Instructions
Now that we have our fresh ingredients and essential equipment lined up, we guide you through crafting these juicy, herb-infused Dom DeLuise meatballs step by step, ensuring they capture that authentic Italian-American flavor.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before mixing, we start by prepping our components to enhance the meatballs’ aromatic profile. Begin by finely chopping 1 medium onion and mincing 4 garlic cloves to release their pungent, savory essence. Next, roughly chop 1/4 cup of fresh parsley for a burst of vibrant, earthy notes. In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs until smooth and fluffy to act as a binding agent. Grate 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese for its nutty, salty tang that elevates the mixture. Measure out 1/2 cup of Italian breadcrumbs for texture and 1 teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to balance the flavors. This preparation ensures every ingredient integrates seamlessly, promising meatballs that are tender and full of depth.
Mix the Meatball Mixture
With ingredients prepped, we combine them in a large mixing bowl to create a cohesive, flavorful base. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of ground pork to the bowl, breaking them up gently with a wooden spoon for even distribution. Pour in the beaten eggs, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Using your hands or a spatula, mix everything thoroughly but carefully—overworking can make the meatballs tough. We aim for a moist, well-blended mixture where the herbs and garlic release their fragrant aromas, setting the stage for irresistibly juicy Dom DeLuise meatballs.
Form the Meatballs
We shape the mixture into perfect spheres that will bake up golden and succulent. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the meatball mixture per ball, roughly forming 24 meatballs from the batch as noted in our earlier preparation. Roll each one between your palms to create smooth, uniform shapes, ensuring they are about 1.5 inches in diameter for even cooking. Place them on a lined baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart to allow heat to circulate. This step transforms the raw mix into appealing, hand-formed delights that promise a satisfying, crispy exterior with a tender interior once cooked.
Cook the Meatballs
Finally, we cook the meatballs to achieve that signature, mouthwatering finish. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet; bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F and develop a golden-brown crust with juicy insides. Alternatively, for searing, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches for 8-10 minutes, rotating to brown all sides evenly. Whichever method you choose, the result is aromatic, flavorful Dom DeLuise meatballs ready to star in your favorite sauces or dishes.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Dom DeLuise Meatball Recipe is its flexibility for busy lifestyles. We often prepare these flavorful, herb-infused meatballs in advance to ensure they’re ready for family dinners or impromptu gatherings without sacrificing that authentic Italian-American taste.
Preparing the Mixture Ahead
To get a head start, begin by mixing the ingredients as outlined in our step-by-step instructions. Forming the meatballs can wait until you’re ready to cook. Here’s how we handle the mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, Italian breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, onion, and seasonings until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld, making the meatballs even more aromatic and juicy when cooked.
Freezing Uncooked Meatballs
If you want to extend the make-ahead options, freezing uncooked meatballs is a game-changer for our Dom DeLuise Meatball Recipe. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- After preparing the mixture, shape the meatballs into uniform 1.5-inch balls as described.
- Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the meatballs on the sheet for about 1 hour until solid. This flash-freezing step helps maintain their shape.
- Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling it with the date.
For storage durations and guidelines, refer to the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (mixture) | Up to 24 hours | Keep chilled at 40°F or below to preserve freshness and prevent bacterial growth. |
| Freezer (formed meatballs) | Up to 3 months | Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for the best texture and flavor. |
Storing and Reheating Cooked Meatballs
- Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely on a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
- Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet with your favorite sauce over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until warmed through, or bake them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This method restores their golden-brown crust and succulent interior, keeping the Italian-American essence intact.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe and its heartfelt Italian-American charm
It’s a versatile staple that brings families together with minimal effort
Give it a try and make it your own for memorable meals ahead
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dom DeLuise’s famous meatball recipe?
Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe is a classic Italian-American dish rooted in Sicilian heritage, featuring juicy, herb-packed meatballs made with ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, onion, and seasonings. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings, yielding about 24 meatballs with an authentic, comforting taste.
What ingredients are needed for Dom DeLuise’s meatballs?
The key ingredients include 1 pound ground beef, 1 pound ground pork, 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 4 garlic cloves, 1 onion, salt, pepper, and herbs. These fresh components create juicy, aromatic meatballs that capture Italian-American flavors.
How do you make Dom DeLuise’s meatballs step by step?
Start by chopping onion and garlic, then mix all ingredients in a large bowl until combined. Form into 24 uniform balls. Cook by baking at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or searing in a skillet until golden-brown and juicy. This ensures an authentic, flavorful result for your Italian-American meal.
Can I prepare Dom DeLuise’s meatballs in advance?
Yes, mix the ingredients up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate to enhance flavors. You can also form and freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking for convenience, making it ideal for busy schedules while keeping the recipe fresh and tasty.
How should I store and reheat Dom DeLuise’s meatballs?
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or on the stovetop with sauce to maintain juiciness and flavor, preserving that authentic Italian-American essence.
What equipment is needed for Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a baking sheet, and optional parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup. A spatula or wooden spoon helps mix ingredients, and you can choose between an oven for baking or a skillet for searing to get perfect results.
What are the nutritional facts for Dom DeLuise’s meatballs?
Each serving (about 4 meatballs) has approximately 350 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, 15g carbohydrates, and 600mg sodium. These values can vary based on ingredients, but the recipe offers a balanced mix of nutrients, making it a hearty yet indulgent Italian-American option.