Ground Beef Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
These ground beef meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, these meatballs can be served in a variety of ways, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Why You Will Love These Meatballs
- Juicy and tender texture that bursts with flavor
- Versatile dish suitable for various meals
- Perfectly seasoned for a savory experience
The Perfect Pairing
Ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes to create a satisfying meal. Whether you toss them in a rich marinara sauce over spaghetti, layer them in a sub sandwich with melted cheese, or serve them as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering, these meatballs will elevate any dish. Their savory flavor profile complements both classic and modern recipes, making them a must-have in your culinary repertoire.
For a fun twist, consider serving these meatballs with a spicy arrabbiata sauce or a creamy alfredo for an unexpected flavor combination. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as ciabatta or hoagie rolls, to create a hearty meatball sandwich that is sure to impress. No matter how you serve them, these meatballs will be a hit at any table.
Meal Prep Made Easy
These ground beef meatballs are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily double or triple the recipe, freeze the extras, and have a quick protein option ready whenever you need it. Simply bake the meatballs, allow them to cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven or microwave.
This makes them ideal for busy weeknights when you don't have time to cook from scratch. Pair them with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, and you have a complete, nutritious meal in minutes. Having these meatballs on hand means you can enjoy homemade meals without the hassle of daily cooking.
Customizable Flavors
One of the greatest advantages of making your own ground beef meatballs is the ability to customize flavors to suit your taste. Feel free to add spices such as crushed red pepper for heat or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth. You can even incorporate ingredients like feta cheese or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist, or swap out the herbs for fresh cilantro and lime for a zesty, Mexican-inspired variation.
By experimenting with different flavors, you can create meatballs that cater to various cuisines, ensuring that you never get bored of this classic dish. The possibilities are endless, and this is a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients in your fridge while keeping mealtime exciting.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Form Meatballs
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
Serve
Serve the meatballs with your favorite sauce, pasta, or as a standalone appetizer.
Cooking Tips
To ensure your meatballs are extra juicy, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Combine them just until everything is well incorporated. This will help maintain their tender texture. Additionally, don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your preference; tasting the mixture before forming the meatballs can help you achieve the flavor profile you desire.
If you want to add a little extra moisture, consider incorporating finely grated zucchini or bell peppers into the mixture. These veggies not only enhance the flavor but also add a nutritional boost to your meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, make sure to heat them thoroughly to ensure food safety. You can reheat them in the microwave for a quick option or place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
If you’ve frozen your meatballs, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will help them warm more evenly. You can also simmer them in sauce directly from the freezer if you're short on time—just make sure to extend the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
Serving Suggestions
For an easy family dinner, serve these meatballs with a side of spaghetti, garlic bread, and a fresh green salad. For a more upscale presentation, consider plating them on a bed of creamy polenta topped with marinara sauce and fresh basil. Alternatively, for a fun appetizer, skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as barbecue, sweet chili, or tzatziki.
You can also get creative by using leftover meatballs in a hearty soup or stew, adding them to a casserole, or incorporating them into a breakfast hash. The versatility of these meatballs makes them a fantastic addition to any meal, no matter the time of day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative.
→ How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) and they should no longer be pink in the center.
→ Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after cooking for up to 3 months.
→ What sauce goes well with meatballs?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also use BBQ or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor.
Ground Beef Meatballs
These ground beef meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
Serve the meatballs with your favorite sauce, pasta, or as a standalone appetizer.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 25g