If your meatballs are falling apart when making this beef meatball recipe, there are a few possible culprits.  - Make sure that you have added the appropriate amount of breadcrumbs. In the right amount, they serve as a binder but too few or too many can lead to loose meatballs. - Be sure that you work the meat mixture thoroughly with your hands to fully incorporate all the ingredients. This is crucial to the binding process, but don’t overdo it. A few minutes will do the trick. You could even chill them for 15 minutes after shaping before cooking to keep firm. - Letting your meatballs simmer in sauce for too long can also lead to mushy meatballs. Give them just enough time to infuse with flavor, then serve.