The cooking time for meatballs depends on the cooking method and their size:
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Simmering in sauce: This is a popular method for cooking meatballs. They are typically browned first on the stovetop and then simmered in a sauce for additional flavor and to ensure they cook through. For simmering in sauce, meatballs will take about 15-20 minutes to cook through after reaching a simmer. However, keep in mind the total cook time might include pre-browning the meatballs.
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Baking in the oven: This method is another common way to cook meatballs. Here, the meatballs are baked on a baking sheet until cooked through. For baking, meatballs will take around 20-25 minutes at an oven temperature of 375°F (190°C) for 1-inch meatballs.
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Pan-frying: Meatballs can also be pan-fried on the stovetop in a skillet with oil. This method cooks them quickly, but it's important to ensure they are cooked through without burning the outside. Pan-frying meatballs of 1 inch size will take roughly 10-15 minutes over medium heat, depending on how well browned you prefer them.
Here are some additional tips for cooking meatballs:
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No matter the cooking method, the most important factor is to ensure the meatballs reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with a food thermometer inserted into the center of a meatball.
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The size of the meatballs will also affect the cooking time. Larger meatballs will take longer to cook through compared to smaller ones.
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Use a splatter guard to prevent grease splatter when pan-frying.
I hope this helps!