Meatballs

Makes 8 servings

Terry Borzumato-Greenberg

“I don’t add salt and pepper because the cheese adds salt, but you could add salt and pepper if desired.”—Nino

ingredients

2 pounds ground round
2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated cheese
2 eggs
3 tablespoons oil
1 1/2 cups water
salt and pepper, optional, to taste

directions

1
In a large bowl place ground meat, seasoned bread crumbs, grated cheese, and eggs. Combine until mixed well, adding water as needed. Mixture should be neither too hard nor too soft. Shape into balls and set aside.
2
Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add meatballs and fry, or place on baking sheet and bake in 350 degree oven for 30-45 minutes until browned. Add water and shake pan if meatballs appear to be sticking. They can be eaten as is or with tomato sauce. Or, instead of frying, meatballs can be added to a pot of tomato sauce and allowed to cook in the sauce.

notes

Grandpa, who made the gravy on Sundays, always browned the meat balls first. Nonni didn't. As Aunt Ro says, "I was the taste-tester and I never wanted to hurt anyone's feelings. I said I liked them both ways, so they'd take turns. . . ."

Source: Nino