1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 1 egg 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the sauce: 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes 1 onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried basil Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through.