Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prep and Form Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, panko, Parmesan, egg, garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined. Do not overwork or meatballs will be tough.
- Roll mixture into 16 meatballs, about 1.5 inches across. Place on a plate and chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes while you prep the sauce ingredients. This helps them hold their shape.
Sear the Meatballs
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. They do not need to be cooked through yet. Transfer to a plate.
Make the Piccata Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter to the skillet and scrape up any browned bits. Pour in wine and simmer for 2 minutes until reduced by half. Add broth, lemon juice, and capers. Simmer for 3 minutes.
- Return meatballs and any juices to the skillet. Cover and simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, turning once, until cooked through and sauce has slightly thickened. An instant-read thermometer should read 160F in the center.
Finish and Serve
- Remove from heat. Swirl in remaining 1 tbsp butter until glossy. Sprinkle with lemon zest and parsley. Serve immediately over buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Notes
For extra tender meatballs, soak the panko in 2 tbsp milk for 5 minutes before mixing. The wine adds acidity that balances the richness, but you can substitute with extra broth plus 1 tbsp white wine vinegar if needed. These reheat beautifully - make a double batch and freeze half in the sauce for up to 3 months.
