The Delicious History of Meatballs

When you think of Italian comfort food, few dishes feel as timeless and satisfying as a plate of spaghetti and meatballs. At Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza & Italian Restaurant, it’s one of the most beloved menu items—but where did this hearty classic come from? The story of the meatball is richer than you might expect.

Believe it or not, meatballs weren’t originally an Italian invention. Versions of ground meat rolled with spices and grains have been found in cuisines around the world for centuries. Ancient Roman texts mention seasoned meat patties, while Middle Eastern kofta and Swedish köttbullar offer their own unique takes. Nearly every culture seems to have discovered the joy of mixing meat with spices and shaping it into bite-sized perfection.

In Italy, polpette (Italian meatballs) are often smaller than the ones we see in America. Traditionally, they’re made with a blend of beef, pork, or veal, mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and fresh herbs. Unlike the American-style dish, Italian polpette are usually served on their own—without pasta—often as part of a family meal or a cozy Sunday spread.

So how did spaghetti and meatballs become the iconic duo we know today? The answer lies with Italian immigrants who came to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Seeking comfort and familiarity, they adapted their recipes to ingredients available in America. Pasta was affordable, tomatoes were plentiful, and larger portions suited American dining styles. Soon, the hearty plate of spaghetti topped with oversized meatballs and rich tomato sauce became a staple of Italian-American cuisine.

At Mama Teresa’s, we honor this tradition by serving our homemade meatballs, prepared with love, just the way Mama intended. It’s a dish that connects history, culture, and family, reminding us that food isn’t just about flavor, but about the stories and traditions we carry to the table.

Next time you’re in Galveston, stop by Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza & Italian Restaurant and order a plate of spaghetti and meatballs. It’s more than a meal, it’s a bite of our history, served fresh from our kitchen to yours.