The secret to perfect meatballs might be simpler than you think – and it’s likely already in your kitchen.

Growing up in New Jersey, surrounded by so many skilled Italian and Italian-American home cooks, I learned a lot about the rich and delicious tradition of an Italian Sunday dinner. Besides love and family, the key ingredients for a proper Sunday meal include red ‘Sunday’ sauce (or gravy, depending on who you ask), pasta, at least one type of meat simmering in the sauce—meatballs, braciole, or sausage—alongside a loaf of Italian bread, grated Parmesan, a fresh salad, and, of course, wine. To top it off, there’s espresso and dessert, but that's another story for another time.

Of course, no one expects you to recreate your mom’s or grandma’s Sunday dinner exactly, because as any Italian knows, no one else’s Sunday dinner will ever taste quite like hers, and that's part of the charm. But there are a few essentials when making a classic Sunday feast. Have you let your sauce simmer low and slow for hours? Is your pasta perfectly al dente? Since the meal usually starts early, have you saved some pasta water for round two? And, when it comes to meatballs, what about their flavor, texture, and consistency? It’s more than just beef that makes a great meatball.

Here’s what you need to make the ultimate meatballs.

I quickly learned that whether you're frying, baking, or cooking meatballs directly in the sauce, the best results come from mixing beef, veal, and pork. The great part is, this combo is often already available as 'meatloaf mix' at your grocery store.

What is meatloaf mix, and why is it the secret to better meatballs?

Meatloaf mix is a perfect blend of equal parts ground beef, veal, and pork. Each type of meat contributes its own unique qualities to the mix, giving the meatballs complexity and balance. Beef provides a hearty flavor and firm texture; veal offers a rich, slightly sweet flavor and tender texture; and pork adds fat, moisture, and a savory, slightly nutty taste. This combination is a game changer for your meatballs, ensuring they're always tender, flavorful, and perfectly textured.

What to do if you can’t find meatloaf mix?

If meatloaf mix isn’t available at your store, you can easily make your own. The traditional blend is a 1:1:1 ratio of beef, veal, and pork, so you can adjust the quantities based on how many meatballs you want to make. The best part of creating your own mix is the freedom to experiment with different ratios and flavors. Want to try adding ground lamb or other meats? Go for it! The key to a successful Italian Sunday dinner is taking your time in the kitchen and enjoying the process. Embrace your creativity and make this hearty, comforting meal your own.