Ground Beef Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Delicious and juicy ground beef meatballs, perfect for pasta dishes or as a stand-alone appetizer.
These ground beef meatballs are a family favorite, easily made at home with simple ingredients. They are versatile and can be served with spaghetti, in a sub, or as an appetizer with dipping sauce.
Why You'll Love These Meatballs
- Juicy and flavorful with every bite
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
- Perfectly seasoned for a comforting meal
The Versatility of Meatballs
Ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. Whether you're tossing them in a rich marinara sauce and serving them over spaghetti, or enjoying them as a hearty appetizer with toothpicks, these meatballs adapt to suit any occasion. Their delicious flavor makes them a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, game nights, or holiday parties.
You can also customize these meatballs with different seasonings or sauces. For a twist, try adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the mix for Mediterranean flair. Change the sauce to a spicy barbecue glaze or a creamy Alfredo for a completely different experience. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect Pairings
When serving these delicious meatballs, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. A crisp Caesar salad with homemade dressing complements the savory flavor of the meatballs beautifully, while roasted Brussels sprouts enhance the meal with their nutty taste. These side dishes not only elevate the meal but also add a nutritious element to your dining experience.
For a more casual setting, serve the meatballs with crusty garlic bread or sliders. The bread soaks up the marinara sauce and offers a satisfying crunch that balances the meat's tenderness. Whether you opt for pasta, bread, or veggies, these meatballs will shine as the star of the meal.
Storing and Reheating Meatballs
If you have leftovers, these meatballs store exceptionally well. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just ensure they are cooled completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer, making them a perfect meal prep option.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is a breeze. Simply place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and heat them for a few minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet with a splash of marinara sauce for a few minutes over medium heat, restoring their juicy texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for serving)
Mix all ingredients thoroughly before shaping into balls.
Instructions
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, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
Shape Meatballs
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Serve
Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta or as an appetizer.
Enjoy your delicious meatballs!
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
To ensure your meatballs are perfectly cooked, be mindful of the size. Aim for uniform meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, so they cook evenly. Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizing, making the process quicker and easier. Additionally, don’t overmix the ingredients, as this can lead to dense meatballs. Just combine until everything is incorporated.
For extra flavor, consider browning the meatballs in a skillet before baking them. This step adds a delightful depth of flavor and a nice crust. However, if you prefer a healthier option, baking them directly in the oven will still yield juicy and flavorful results.
Serving Suggestions
These ground beef meatballs are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the presentation by serving them on a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a flavorful grain like quinoa or farro. This not only enhances the meal but also provides a hearty base that complements the meatballs beautifully.
For a fun twist, serve the meatballs on skewers as part of a tapas-style meal. Pair them with various dips such as tzatziki, marinara, or a spicy aioli. This makes for an interactive dining experience where guests can mix and match flavors.
Nutritional Information
Ground beef meatballs are not only delicious but can also be a nutritious option when made with lean ground beef. They provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Pairing them with vegetables or whole grains enhances their nutritional profile, offering a balanced meal.
If you’re looking to reduce calories or fat, consider substituting half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This keeps the meatballs light while still retaining their flavor. Additionally, using whole grain breadcrumbs can increase fiber content, making them a healthier choice overall.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option.
→ How do I store leftover meatballs?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze these meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer when ready to use.
→ What can I serve these meatballs with?
They are great with spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or with a dipping sauce as an appetizer.
Ground Beef Meatballs
Delicious and juicy ground beef meatballs, perfect for pasta dishes or as a stand-alone appetizer.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for serving)
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, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta or as an appetizer.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 25g