Easy Meatball Recipe

Introduction

These easy meatballs are a classic, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Made with simple ingredients and baked to juicy perfection, they can be enjoyed on their own or simmered in your favorite marinara sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 pound 80% lean ground beef (can substitute half with ground pork)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian flat leaf parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Kosher salt, black pepper, and parsley if using. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Step 3: Use a medium cookie scoop or spoon to portion the meat mixture. Form each portion into a 1 1/2-inch ball and place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Step 4: Bake the meatballs uncovered for 17 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through to prevent the bottoms from browning, until they are no longer pink in the center.
5. Step 5: For an optional serving suggestion, simmer the baked meatballs in marinara sauce for 10 minutes before serving.
6. Step 6: Serve the meatballs on their own or over spaghetti noodles. Top with additional parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute half the ground beef with ground pork for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dry for a softer meatball.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a subtle spicy kick.
• Try baking meatballs on a wire rack set over the baking sheet for even cooking all around.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or simmer gently in sauce until heated through. You can also freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the beef. Mixing beef and pork gives a traditional flavor and texture, but feel free to adjust based on your preferences.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

Meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F and are no longer pink in the center. Baking them for 17 to 20 minutes usually achieves this, but use a meat thermometer to be sure.

Easy Meatball Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 91 reviews

This easy meatball recipe delivers juicy, flavorful meatballs baked to perfection in the oven. Made with a simple mix of ground beef, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and seasoning, these meatballs are perfect as a main dish served over spaghetti or simmered in marinara sauce for added flavor. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe strikes a great balance between convenience and delicious homemade taste.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (about 16 meatballs) 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatball Ingredients

• 1 pound 80% lean ground beef (can substitute half with ground pork)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian flat leaf parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, Kosher salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley if using. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated but avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. Form Meatballs: Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the meat mixture. Roll each portion into a 1 1/2-inch ball and arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs uncovered for 17 to 20 minutes. Halfway through baking, turn the meatballs carefully to prevent the bottoms from browning too much and ensure even cooking.
5. Optional Simmer: For added flavor and moisture, you can simmer the baked meatballs in marinara sauce for about 10 minutes on the stovetop. This step is optional but highly recommended if serving with sauce.
6. Serve: Serve the meatballs on their own as a hearty snack or over cooked spaghetti noodles. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley if desired for a classic Italian touch.

Notes

• Use fresh parsley for the best flavor, but dried parsley can be substituted in a pinch.
• Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
• Turning meatballs halfway during baking promotes even cooking and prevents burning.
• Simmering in marinara sauce enhances juiciness and infuses additional flavor.
• These meatballs freeze well both before and after cooking for convenient meal prep.

Keywords: easy meatballs, baked meatballs, ground beef meatballs, Italian meatballs, quick dinner, weeknight meal