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Italian Pork and Fennel Meatballs

Ground pork with fennel seed is the combo that makes people think you learned this from an Italian grandmother. These are rich, savory, and perfectly seasoned with a crisp sear and a quick simmer in marinara. They smell incredible while they cook.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs ground pork
  • 1/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fennel seeds
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

  1. Mix ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt in a bowl.
  2. Roll into 1.5-inch balls.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown meatballs on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
  4. Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs in the skillet, reduce heat, and simmer covered for 10-12 minutes.
  5. Serve directly from the pan with toothpicks and extra sauce for dipping.