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Easy Meatball Recipe

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★★★★★

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://cookwithruby.com/easy-meatball-recipe/