Dom Deluise Meatball Recipe – Hungarian Chef

Last Updated on October 2, 2023

Introducing Dom DeLuise‘s famous meatball recipe – a culinary masterpiece that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food. Known for his comedic genius on the silver screen, DeLuise was also a passionate cook whose love for Italian cuisine was evident in every dish he prepared. His meatball recipe, in particular, has garnered a cult following over the years. It’s a symphony of flavors, where succulent ground meat mingles with fresh herbs, aromatic garlic, and tangy tomato sauce, creating a truly unforgettable dish.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the world of Dom DeLuise’s iconic meatballs!

dom deluise meatball recipe

What is dom deluise meatball?

The origins of Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe can be traced back to his childhood in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up in an Italian-American family, DeLuise was exposed to traditional Italian cooking at a young age. His mother and grandmother were both talented cooks who passed down their recipes to him. Over the years, he refined and perfected their meatball recipe, adding his personal touches and creating a dish that would become his trademark.

What sets Dom DeLuise‘s meatball recipe apart from others is the attention to detail and high-quality ingredients. From using fresh herbs instead of dried to hand rolling each meatball, every step in this recipe is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and texture.

But perhaps the biggest secret to these mouthwatering meatballs is the use of bread. DeLuise’s recipe calls for soaking day-old Italian bread in milk and adding it to the ground meat mixture. This not only adds moisture but also helps bind the meat together, resulting in a tender and juicy meatball.

The recipe is a classic Italian-American dish that has stood the test of time. It consists of tender balls of ground meat, typically a combination of beef and pork, seasoned with herbs and spices, then slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce. The result is a hearty, flavorful meal that satisfies both the stomach and soul.

Why You’ll Love this Dom Deluise Meatball?

There are many reasons why Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe has gained such a loyal following. For one, it’s incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. You can enjoy them as the main dish with a side of pasta or on top of a sandwich for a hearty lunch. They also make for great appetizers when paired with toothpicks and dipped in marinara sauce.

Another reason is the simplicity of the recipe. While it does require a bit of time and effort, the ingredients are easy to find and the steps are straightforward. It’s a great recipe for beginners looking to impress friends and family or for seasoned cooks wanting to add a new dish to their repertoire.

But perhaps the most significant reason why you’ll love this recipe is the nostalgia it evokes. For many, it brings back memories of family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and cozy nights at home. It’s a dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart.

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Ingredients 

  1. Parsley: This herb adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor to the dish. It’s also a great source of vitamins A, C, and K. Its bright green color can provide a nice visual contrast to the other ingredients.
  2. Ground Beef: Ground beef is a staple in many recipes because of its rich flavor and satisfying texture. It’s high in protein and provides a substantial base for the dish.
  3. Ground Pork: Mixing ground pork with beef adds depth to the flavor profile of the dish. Pork tends to be a bit fattier than beef, which can make the resulting dish juicier and more flavorful.
  4. Salt: Salt is essential in almost all savory dishes. It enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and can help bring out their characteristics.
  5. Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce adds moisture, depth, and a tangy sweetness to the dish. It also helps bind the other ingredients together.
  6. Onion: Onions are often used as a base flavor in cooking. They add a bit of sweetness and can become incredibly savory when cooked down.
  7. Garlic: Garlic has a strong, pungent flavor that can elevate a dish. Like onions, it’s often used as a base flavor in cooking.
  8. Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a bit of heat and complexity to the dish. It pairs well with both the meats and the tomato sauce, enhancing their flavors.
dom deluise meatball

Directions 

Step 1: Combine Ground Meats

In a large mixing bowl, place the ground beef and pork.

Step 2: Season and Mix

Add minced parsley, salt, and black pepper to the meat in the mixing bowl. Using your hands, thoroughly mix all the ingredients.

Step 3: Shape Meatballs

Shape the meat mixture into tablespoon-sized balls, then set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the pan and add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 5: Brown Meatballs

Add the prepared meatballs to the skillet, and if necessary, cook them in batches. Brown the meatballs on all sides until they have a nice sear. After browning, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 6: Create Tomato Sauce

Pour tomato sauce into the same skillet, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 7: Simmer with Meatballs

Allow the tomato sauce to come to a simmer, then reintroduce the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Cover and let them cook for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked through.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the hot meatballs with your choice of pasta or on top of crusty bread for a delicious meatball sandwich.

Notes 

  • For a lighter version of this recipe, you can use ground turkey instead of beef and pork.
  • You can also add in some grated Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture for an extra punch of flavor.
  • Make sure to cook the meatballs in batches if your skillet is not large enough. Crowding the pan can prevent them from browning properly.
  • Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Some people prefer their meatballs with a bit more salt and pepper, while others may like it less seasoned.

Storage Tips 

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then heat them on the stove or in the microwave.

To prevent your meatballs from drying out when reheating, you can add a splash of water or broth to the pan. This will help keep them moist and flavorful.

Another tip for storing meatballs is to separate them with pieces of parchment paper before freezing. This will prevent them from sticking together and make it easier to defrost only the amount you need.

dom deluise meatball

Nutrition Information 

Serving Suggestions 

Here are a few ways you can enjoy Dom DeLuise’s famous meatballs:

  • Serve over your favorite pasta with some extra tomato sauce and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Make a hearty sub sandwich by placing the meatballs on crusty bread, topping it off with some melted mozzarella cheese, and broiling until golden and bubbly.
  • Use them to create a traditional Italian meatball and marinara sauce dish, served with garlic bread on the side.
  • Enjoy them as an appetizer by serving them with toothpicks and your choice of dipping sauce.

What other substitute can I use in dom deluise meatball? 

If you’re looking to switch up the ingredients or make a variation on Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe, here are some substitutes you can try:

  • Instead of ground beef and pork, you can use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
  • For a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or mashed beans. You can also try using tofu as a vegan option.
  • If you don’t have parsley on hand, you can use other fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch.
  • For a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check the ingredients of your tomato sauce to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden gluten.
  • If you want to make the meatballs spicier, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the mixture. You can also try using different types of peppers such as jalapenos or serranos for a unique flavor.
dom deluise meatball

Dom Deluise Meatball Recipe

Introducing Dom DeLuise's famous meatball recipe – a culinary masterpiece that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: dom deluise meatball recipe
Servings: 8
Calories: 307kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large bowl
  • Saucepan

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of ground beef
  • 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 30- ounce can of tomato sauce
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • Mix ground beef and pork in a large bowl.
  • Add parsley, salt, and black pepper, then shape into tablespoon-sized meatballs.
  • Cook diced onion and minced garlic in a skillet until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
  • In the same skillet, brown meatballs on all sides, then set them aside.
  • Pour tomato sauce into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
  • Add the meatballs back to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
  • Enjoy with pasta or as a meatball sandwich on crusty bread.

Notes

  • For a lighter version of this recipe, you can use ground turkey instead of beef and pork.
  • You can also add in some grated Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture for an extra punch of flavor.
  • Make sure to cook the meatballs in batches if your skillet is not large enough. Crowding the pan can prevent them from browning properly.
  • Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Some people prefer their meatballs with a bit more salt and pepper, while others may like it less seasoned.

Nutrition

Calories: 307kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

FAQs

  1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
    Fresh herbs will give you the best flavor, but you can substitute dried if that’s what you have on hand. Remember that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so you’ll want to use about 1/3 the amount.
  2. Why are my meatballs tough?
    If your meatballs end up tough, it could be that you overmixed the meat or cooked them at too high heat. Try to mix the ingredients until just combined, and cook the meatballs at medium heat for best results.
  3. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
    Yes, you can bake the meatballs in the oven if you prefer. This can be a healthier option as it requires less oil. To do this, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the meatballs for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re cooked through.

Conclusion

Dom DeLuise’s famous meatball recipe is more than just a dish – it’s a labor of love that has stood the test of time. Its simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Plus, with easy-to-follow directions and customizable options, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. So, whether you’re channeling your inner Italian nonna or simply looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, give Dom DeLuise’s meatballs a try – you won’t regret it!

Please share your experiences with us in the comments below. We would love to hear how your meatballs turned out and any tips or variations you may have tried. Happy cooking!

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Lori Walker is a passionate dietitian and food lover. She offers simple and nutritious recipes that don't take long to cook. In addition to sharing delicious dishes, she also shares useful advice on saving time and money in the kitchen. She believes that with a bit of creativity, anyone can make healthy meals that won't break the bank. Read more

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