Polpette (Meatballs

Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
Classic Lombardy-style meatballs with a bright gremolata finish
Polpette (Meatballs recipe image
Recipe tools
Use print to print the article or save it as a PDF. “Save article” downloads a clean HTML copy for offline reading.

These authentic Lombardy polpette are more than just simple meatballs; they are a study in delicate balance. The ground beef is kept light and airy by incorporating milk-soaked bread, while the addition of fresh gremolata&# 226;€”finely minced lemon zest, parsley, and garlic—infuses every bite with aromatic brightness. A hint of grated nutmeg adds warmth, contrasting beautifully with the sharp citrus notes. These flattened cakes are pan-fried quickly in olive oil to create a golden crust while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Perfect served immediately as an appetizer or alongside a light salad for a quick Italian dinner.

Polpette (Meatballs recipe image
0 Add to Favorites

Polpette (Meatballs

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 667.1

Description

These authentic Lombardy polpette are more than just simple meatballs; they are a study in delicate balance. The ground beef is kept light and airy by incorporating milk-soaked bread, while the addition of fresh gremolata&# 226;€”finely minced lemon zest, parsley, and garlic—infuses every bite with aromatic brightness. A hint of grated nutmeg adds warmth, contrasting beautifully with the sharp citrus notes. These flattened cakes are pan-fried quickly in olive oil to create a golden crust while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Perfect served immediately as an appetizer or alongside a light salad for a quick Italian dinner.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Finely mince the zest of 1 small lemon, 2 teaspoons of parsley, and 2 cloves of garlic to create a gremolata mixture.
  2. Soak the slice of white bread in milk, then squeeze it dry until crumbled.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, gremolata mixture, salt, pepper, and grated nutmeg.
  4. Stir in the squeezed bread and the beaten egg until just combined.
  5. On a lightly floured surface, gently form the mixture into small flattened cakes, approximately 1/2 inch thick and 1 1/2 inches wide. Do not overwork or press the mixture too firmly.
  6. Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  7. Brown the meatballs in the hot oil for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through.
  8. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 667.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 36.8g57%
Saturated Fat 10.1g51%
Cholesterol 181.8mg61%
Sodium 249.5mg11%
Total Carbohydrate 47.4g16%
Dietary Fiber 8.7g35%
Sugars 3.3g
Protein 42.0g84%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: italian, meatballs, polpette, beef, gremolata, lemon, garlic, parsley, nutmeg, pan-fried, appetizer, dinner, comfort food, classic, lombardy, herbs, olive oil, ground beef, bread, milk
Recipe Card powered by WP Delicious

Leave a Comment