Makes about 55 1-½ inch meatballs.

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon lemon pepper

• 2 teaspoon parsley flakes

• ½ teaspoon mint flakes

• ½ cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs

• ¼ cup plain bread crumbs

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups lukewarm water

• 3 pounds ground hamburger meat (85% lean)

• 2 pounds ground pork

• 4 eggs

• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt

• 2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

1. Preheat oven to 370º F. Line at least two large baking sheets with foil. 

2. In a large bowl, mix together the meat thoroughly and then add in the eggs one at a time. 

3. Add all spices, breadcrumbs, and cheese to the meat and mix. Optional: instead of garlic and onion powders, sauté 2 cloves of garlic and 1 small shallot in a drop of extra-virgin olive oil. You can also use fresh parsley and mint – double the amounts. 

4. Add the water a half-cup at a time. Make sure all the spices and breadcrumbs are thoroughly blended into the meat evenly. 

5. Use a 2-inch ice cream scoop to form balls and place on baking sheets (they shrink a bit while cooking). 

6. Bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes, until slightly brown. Don’t overcook.