Dom DeLuise Meatball Recipe: A Classic Italian-American Dish

Dom DeLuise’s Meatball Legacy

Dom DeLuise, the beloved comedian known for his boisterous laugh and larger-than-life personality, brought a touch of Italian-American charm to the silver screen. But beyond the movie magic, DeLuise held a deep love for traditional family recipes, particularly his cherished meatball recipe.

This isn’t just any meatball recipe. It’s a symphony of flavors, a testament to the warmth and generosity of Italian-American kitchens. DeLuise’s recipe has been passed down through generations, becoming a symbol of togetherness and celebration.

Today, we’re sharing this culinary treasure, allowing you to experience the magic of DeLuise’s meatballs in your own home. Get ready to savor the flavors of tradition and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Dom DeLuise Meatball Recipe Card

A classic Italian-American dish made famous by the late Dom DeLuise, these meatballs are a staple for any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 500g / 2 cups ground beef
• 240g / 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Cooking Information:

• Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
• Preheat oven to 190°C / 375°F
• Bake for 15-18 minutes or until browned

Serving Size:

Yield: 20-25 meatballs

Serving suggestion: Serve with marinara sauce and pasta for a hearty Italian-American meal.

Ingredients for Dom DeLuise’s Meatballs

To create authentic and delicious meatballs, it’s essential to use the right combination of ingredients. This recipe, inspired by Dom DeLuise, combines traditional Italian-American flavors with a unique twist.

The following ingredients are necessary for this recipe:

• 450 g / 1 lb ground beef
• 115 g / 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 60 g / 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup / 60 ml whole milk
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp / 5 ml dried basil
• 1 tsp / 5 ml dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for cooking
• Optional ingredients:
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • 1/4 cup / 60 g chopped fresh basil, for added flavor
  • 1-2 diced hot peppers, for extra spice

These ingredients will be combined and cooked at a medium-high heat of 200°C / 400°F to create perfectly browned meatballs.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Dom DeLuise’s Meatballs

These are the steps to follow to recreate Dom DeLuise’s legendary meatballs, packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress.

1. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 240 g (1 cup) breadcrumbs, 120 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 large egg, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley.
2. Add the meat: Gently fold in 500 g (1.1 lbs) ground beef, 250 g (1/2 lb) ground pork, and 125 g (1/2 lb) ground veal. Use a light touch to avoid overworking the mixture.
3. Mix thoroughly: Use a spoon or spatula to mix all the ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Shape the meatballs: Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into 1.5-2 inch meatballs. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brown the meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Simmer in sauce: Transfer the browned meatballs to a large pot or Dutch oven. Pour your favorite marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Cook until tender: Cover the pot and simmer the meatballs in the sauce for at least 45 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).
8. Serve and enjoy: Serve the meatballs hot over your favorite pasta, with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips for Making Dom DeLuise’s Meatballs

Dom DeLuise’s meatballs are a true classic, and with these expert tips, you’ll be on your way to creating the perfect Italian-American dish.

Tip 1: Choose the Right Meat

For the best flavor and texture, use a combination of ground meats, such as beef, pork, and veal. This blend will give your meatballs a rich, complex taste and a tender bite.

• Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
• Add 20% pork for added richness and depth.
• Use 10% veal for its delicate flavor and tender texture.

Tip 2: Don’t Overmix

Mix the meat mixture just until the ingredients come together. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough meatballs.

Use a gentle folding motion to combine the ingredients, and stop mixing as soon as they’re just combined.

Tip 3: Shape for Success

Use a gentle touch when shaping the meatballs. Aim for a uniform size and shape to ensure even cooking.

Use a small ice cream scoop or a spoon to portion out the meat mixture, and gently shape each meatball into a round or oval shape.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overcooking the meatballs, which can lead to dryness and toughness.
• Not using enough breadcrumbs, which can cause the meatballs to fall apart.

By following these expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating Dom DeLuise’s delicious meatballs, with a flavor and texture that’s sure to impress.

Substitutions and Variations for Dom DeLuise’s Meatballs

To make the Dom DeLuise Meatball Recipe truly unique, consider these substitutions and variations. For a slightly different flavor profile, replace 120 g / 1/2 cup of ground beef with the same amount of ground pork or veal.

• Swap 60 g / 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan with the same amount of grated Romano for a sharper taste.
• Use 15 g / 1 tablespoon of dried oregano instead of fresh parsley for a more pronounced herbal flavor.
• Replace 30 g / 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the same amount of avocado oil for a milder taste when baking the meatballs at 200°C / 400°F.

For an Italian-American twist, add 60 g / 1/4 cup of chopped prosciutto or pancetta to the meat mixture for added saltiness. When experimenting with these substitutions, remember that even small changes can impact the final flavor and texture of the meatballs.

Beyond the Classic: Creative Variations on Dom DeLuise’s Meatball Recipe

Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe is a timeless classic, but why stop there? Let’s explore some exciting variations that build on the foundation of this beloved dish.

Global Twists

1. Mediterranean Delight: Swap ground beef for a blend of lamb and beef, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh oregano, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese. The cooking time remains the same, but the flavor profile takes a Mediterranean vacation.
2. Asian Fusion: Incorporate ground pork and ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil. Serve the meatballs over rice noodles with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for a taste of the Far East. Cooking time increases slightly due to the pork.

Meatball Makeovers

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the classic recipe for a fiery twist. The meatballs will cook at the same time, but the heat level will be noticeably elevated.
• Veggie Power: Substitute half the ground beef with finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a healthier, lighter option. Cooking time may slightly increase depending on the vegetables used.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique variations on Dom DeLuise’s iconic meatball recipe.

Storing and Reheating Dom DeLuise’s Meatballs

After preparing Dom DeLuise’s meatballs, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their texture and flavor. Here are some tips:

• Short-term storage: Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for 3 to 5 days.
• Long-term storage: Freeze the meatballs in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat from frozen.

Reheating Tips:

1. Baked: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for convection. Place the thawed or frozen meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
2. Simmered: Place the thawed or frozen meatballs in a saucepan with your favorite marinara sauce. Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the meatballs are heated through.

Remember to always reheat the meatballs to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Dom DeLuise’s Meatballs

When making Dom DeLuise’s meatballs, some issues may arise, affecting the final result. To ensure the best outcome, it’s essential to identify and address these problems promptly.

Common Problems and Fixes

The following are some common issues encountered when making Dom DeLuise’s meatballs, along with their solutions:

• Dry Meatballs: This can be caused by overcooking or using too much breadcrumbs. To fix, cook the meatballs at a lower temperature (180°C / 350°F) for a shorter time, and use less breadcrumbs (about 60 g / 1/2 cup).
• Uneven Cooking: This can occur when the meatballs are not cooked at a consistent temperature. To resolve, use a thermometer to ensure the oven is at the correct temperature (200°C / 400°F), and rotate the meatballs halfway through cooking.
• Meatballs Falling Apart: This can be due to insufficient binding agents or overmixing. To fix, add a little more egg (about 15 g / 1 tablespoon) or breadcrumbs, and mix the ingredients just until they come together.
• Undercooked or Overcooked Centers: This can be caused by incorrect cooking time or temperature. To address, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature (it should reach 74°C / 165°F), and adjust the cooking time as needed.

By being aware of these potential issues and their solutions, it’s possible to achieve perfectly cooked Dom DeLuise’s meatballs every time.

Nutrition Information for Dom DeLuise’s Meatballs

Want to know how these delicious meatballs stack up nutritionally? Here’s a breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 15g

These meatballs are a good source of protein and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Keep in mind that the nutritional content may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.

Diet Tags:

• Not Vegan
• Not Gluten-Free
• Not Dairy-Free

Key Takeaways from Dom DeLuise’s Meatball Recipe

This classic Italian-American recipe offers several valuable lessons to enhance cooking skills. The combination of 450g / 1 lb ground meat, 115g / 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, and 60g / 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese creates a balanced flavor profile.

• Using a mix of beef and pork provides a richer taste and texture compared to using a single type of meat.
• Not overmixing the meat mixture is crucial to maintaining the meatballs’ tenderness and avoiding a dense texture.
• Baking the meatballs in a preheated oven at 200°C / 400°F for 18-20 minutes ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture.

These key takeaways from Dom DeLuise’s meatball recipe can be applied to various Italian-American dishes, allowing for experimentation and creativity in the kitchen. By following these tips and using quality ingredients, delicious and authentic meatballs can be achieved with ease.

A Little Bit of Dom in Every Bite

Growing up, my family’s Sunday dinners were always a big affair. And at the heart of every feast was a mountain of delicious, juicy meatballs. My Uncle Tony swore by a recipe he’d learned from his friend, Dom DeLuise. Now, I know what you’re thinking: Dom DeLuise, the comedic legend?
Turns out, Dom had a secret passion for cooking, and his meatballs were legendary among his friends and family.

Uncle Tony’s recipe is a testament to Dom’s love for hearty, flavorful Italian-American cooking. The meatballs are packed with juicy ground beef, pork, and veal, seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices and herbs. The secret ingredient, though, is a touch of sweetness from the grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a subtle depth of flavor that elevates these meatballs to another level.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked Uncle Tony’s recipe slightly, adding a splash of milk to the mixture for extra tenderness. Feel free to experiment with the seasonings, too. A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a sprinkle of fresh oregano for a brighter flavor, can really personalize this dish.

Dom DeLuise’s Meatball Recipe: A Delicious Legacy

With this authentic Italian-American meatball recipe, you’ll experience the rich flavors that made Dom DeLuise’s cooking a beloved favorite. Our recipe combines tender beef, pork, and a blend of aromatic spices, all wrapped up in a rich tomato sauce. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Give Dom DeLuise’s Meatball Recipe a try and discover the joy of Italian-American cooking. For more delicious recipes, explore our collection of classic dishes, from pasta sauces to decadent desserts.