BAKED ITALIAN MEATBALLS

1 pound ground beef (90% to 95% lean)
1/4 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
1 egg
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 jar (14 1/2 ounces) pasta sauce, heated
Hot cooked pasta or crusty Italian rolls (optional)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, water, garlic, salt and pepper in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape into 12 two-inch meatballs. Place on rack in broiler pan.

Bake in 400 degree F oven 17 to 19 minutes to medium (160 degrees F) doneness, until not pink in center and juices show no pink color.

Serve with pasta sauce over hot cooked pasta or as sandwiches in crusty Italian rolls, if desired.

Servings: 4 (12 two-inch meatballs)
Source: Cattleman's Beef Board