Ground Beef Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
These ground beef meatballs are savory, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect addition to your dinner table.
Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish enjoyed by many. They can be served with pasta, in a sub, or enjoyed on their own. These meatballs are easy to make and bring comfort to any meal.
Why You'll Love These Meatballs
- Juicy and tender texture that's irresistible
- Perfectly seasoned for a burst of flavor
- Versatile for any meal or occasion
The Perfect Meatball for Any Occasion
Ground beef meatballs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these meatballs can be the star of your meal. They can be served on their own, paired with spaghetti, or even nestled in a sub sandwich for a hearty lunch. Their adaptability makes them a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
One of the best aspects of these meatballs is their ability to absorb flavors. As they cook, they soak up the seasonings and spices, leading to a rich, savory taste that pleases every palate. You can easily customize the herbs and spices to suit your preferences, making this recipe a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Tips for Making Perfect Meatballs
To achieve the perfect meatball, it's important to balance the ingredients properly. The breadcrumbs help bind the mixture together while providing a tender texture, and the grated Parmesan cheese adds a depth of flavor. Don't skip on the fresh parsley; its bright notes complement the richness of the beef beautifully. Mixing the ingredients by hand is recommended, as it ensures an even blend without overworking the meat, which can lead to tough meatballs.
Another tip for success is to let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after forming them. This allows the flavors to meld and helps them hold their shape better during baking. If you want to add a little heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the mix for a spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make delicious ground beef meatballs:
Ground Beef Meatballs Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
Make sure to have these ingredients ready before starting the recipe.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your meatballs:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Form Meatballs
Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Enjoy your freshly baked meatballs with pasta, on a sub, or on their own!
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs shine on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad for a light option or with roasted vegetables for a hearty, nutritious plate. If you're in the mood for comfort food, consider serving them over spaghetti with marinara sauce, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
For a fun twist, try serving these meatballs as appetizers at your next party. Skewer them with toothpicks and offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as marinara, barbecue, or a zesty aioli. This makes for a crowd-pleasing snack that guests will love.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing these meatballs is easy. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to label your container with the date for easy tracking.
When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheating is simple. You can warm them in the microwave or place them in a skillet with a splash of water or sauce to steam them back to life. For a crispier exterior, reheating in the oven is a great option. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes, ensuring they're heated through.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ What can I serve with meatballs?
Meatballs are great with spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or served with a side of vegetables.
→ Can I freeze meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What's the best way to check if meatballs are done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for ground beef.
Ground Beef Meatballs
These ground beef meatballs are savory, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect addition to your dinner table.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Meatballs Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 25g