Ground Beef Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Deliciously savory ground beef meatballs that are perfect for any occasion.
Ground beef meatballs are a classic comfort food that never disappoints. Whether served over pasta, in a sub, or on their own, these meatballs are sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You'll Love These Meatballs
- Juicy and flavorful with every bite
- Versatile for various dishes and sauces
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Perfect for Any Occasion
Ground beef meatballs are a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply craving comfort food, these meatballs fit the bill. Their savory flavor and juicy texture make them a crowd-pleaser, ensuring your guests will leave satisfied. Plus, they can be served as an appetizer or a main course, adapting easily to your serving style.
These meatballs are perfect for pairing with a variety of sauces. From classic marinara to tangy barbecue, the flavor possibilities are endless. You can also toss them into a hearty pasta dish or serve them on a sub roll with melted cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich. The versatility of these meatballs makes them a staple recipe you'll return to time and again.
Easy and Quick Preparation
Busy weeknights don’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or nutrition. This ground beef meatball recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it an ideal option for those hectic evenings. With minimal prep time and a short baking duration, you'll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes, allowing you to spend more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones.
The ingredients are pantry staples, meaning you likely have everything you need on hand. Ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a few seasonings combine to create a mouthwatering dish without the need for elaborate shopping trips. This ease of preparation not only saves time but also reduces stress, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks.
Healthy and Nutritious
In addition to being delicious, these meatballs can also be a healthier choice compared to many pre-packaged options. By making them at home, you can control the quality of your ingredients, ensuring you’re using fresh ground beef and minimizing preservatives. The addition of herbs like parsley not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish.
You can easily customize the recipe to fit dietary needs or preferences. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or add vegetables like grated zucchini or carrots to sneak in some extra nutrients. This flexibility allows you to create a meal that suits your family's tastes while still being health-conscious.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your meatballs:
Ingredients for Ground Beef Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start making your meatballs!
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 ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix until well combined.
Form Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Bake Meatballs
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sauce or pasta!
Your delicious ground beef meatballs are now ready to be enjoyed!
Serving Suggestions
These ground beef meatballs shine when paired with a variety of sides. For a classic Italian feast, serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Alternatively, for a more casual meal, try them in a sub sandwich topped with melted provolone cheese and sautéed bell peppers. The options are as diverse as your culinary creativity, making these meatballs a fantastic addition to any menu.
For a lighter fare, consider serving the meatballs on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette. This not only complements the savory flavors of the meat but also adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the dish. No matter how you choose to serve them, these meatballs will be the star of your table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, storing them properly can extend their shelf life and maintain their delicious flavor. Place cooled meatballs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Lay the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy leftover meatballs, reheating them is a breeze. Simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can simmer them gently in your favorite sauce on the stovetop for a comforting meal that brings back the freshness of the original dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well for a lighter option.
→ How can I store leftover meatballs?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
→ What sauce goes best with meatballs?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but BBQ sauce or a creamy gravy also pair well.
Ground Beef Meatballs
Deliciously savory ground beef meatballs that are perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Ground Beef Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix until well combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sauce or pasta!
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: 24g