Ground Beef Meatballs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious and juicy ground beef meatballs, perfect for pasta, subs, or on their own.

Aubrey Whitman

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T15:42:38.830Z

These ground beef meatballs are a family favorite, combining simple ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish. Whether served with spaghetti or as an appetizer, they are sure to please!

Why You'll Love These Meatballs

  • Juicy and flavorful with a perfect blend of herbs
  • Versatile for various dishes from pasta to subs
  • Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

Perfect for Every Occasion

Ground beef meatballs are a culinary delight that fits seamlessly into a variety of meals. Whether you're preparing a cozy family dinner, hosting a weekend gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet night at home, these meatballs are the perfect choice. Their rich flavor and satisfying texture make them a favorite among both kids and adults. Serve them over pasta, tucked into a sub, or on their own with a side of marinara for dipping—no one will be left disappointed.

Moreover, these meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can modify them based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or add in your favorite spices for a personal touch. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your kitchen.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this ground beef meatball recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. This is particularly beneficial for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. The prep time is minimal, and cooking is straightforward—perfect for novice cooks or anyone short on time.

Additionally, these meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Preparing a large batch on the weekend means you'll have quick meals at your fingertips during the week. Just heat them up in the sauce, and dinner is served!

Healthier Comfort Food

While meatballs are often considered a comfort food, they can also be part of a balanced diet. By using lean ground beef and incorporating fresh herbs and spices, you’re adding nutritional value to your meal. The parsley not only enhances the flavor but also provides vitamins and minerals. Serving these meatballs with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad can create a well-rounded dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional goals.

Moreover, homemade meatballs allow you to control the ingredients, reducing preservatives and unhealthy additives often found in store-bought versions. This makes them a healthier alternative that doesn't compromise on taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your meatballs:

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your meatballs:

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Form Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.

Cook Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and cook the meatballs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.

Simmer in Sauce

Add marinara sauce to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

Serve the meatballs hot with your favorite side or over pasta.

Storage Tips

To ensure your meatballs stay fresh, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen meatballs, simply reheat them in a skillet with marinara sauce over low heat, or bake them in the oven until heated through. This makes for an effortless meal option on those busy evenings.

Serving Suggestions

These ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a classic Italian meal, serve them over spaghetti and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil. Alternatively, you can create a hearty meatball sub by placing them in a toasted hoagie roll, smothered in marinara, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.

For a lighter option, pair these meatballs with a zesty salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve them as an appetizer at parties, providing toothpicks for easy serving. The flavor and texture will impress your guests, making them a hit at any gathering.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will still yield delicious meatballs.

→ How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread crumbs or oats in place of regular bread crumbs.

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely! Cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the sauce when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with meatballs?

They are great with pasta, in subs, or served on their own with a side salad.

Ground Beef Meatballs

Delicious and juicy ground beef meatballs, perfect for pasta, subs, or on their own.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Aubrey Whitman

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 pound ground beef
  2. 1/4 cup bread crumbs
  3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  5. 1 clove garlic, minced
  6. 1 egg
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 02

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 03

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and cook the meatballs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.

Step 04

Add marinara sauce to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 24g