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An Italian Grandmother Showed Me This Old Recipe! The Most Delicious Dinner!

There’s a certain charm to recipes passed down through generations. They’re not just about the ingredients or the techniques—they’re about the stories, the love, and the memories shared around the dinner table. When I first tasted this recipe, shared by an Italian grandmother, it was like being transported straight to a cozy kitchen in Italy, where the air is filled with the aroma of garlic, basil, and simmering tomatoes. ❤️

Today, I’m excited to share this timeless recipe with you—a dish that’s rich, hearty, and perfect for bringing a bit of Italy into your home. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner with family or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Why This Recipe is Unforgettable

Authentic Italian Flavors: Fresh herbs, high-quality olive oil, and a sauce that simmers to perfection.
Hearty and Comforting: Slow-cooked to develop rich and deep flavors.
Tradition at Its Best: Inspired by an Italian grandmother’s kitchen, where simplicity meets excellence.
Perfect for Gatherings: A recipe that invites everyone to the table for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this dish truly authentic, it’s important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs:

500g ground beef and pork mix (or just beef if you prefer)
1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (panko works too)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce:

2 cans (400g each) crushed tomatoes
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar (balances the acidity of the tomatoes)
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
A handful of fresh basil leaves (for serving)

For Serving:

Spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Grated Parmesan cheese
Crusty Italian bread (for mopping up that sauce!)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This Authentic Italian Dinner

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, mix together:

Ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano.
Use your hands to combine gently—don’t overmix, or the meatballs will be tough.

Roll into 1-inch balls and set them aside.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning them gently to get a golden crust on each side (about 2-3 minutes per side).