Ground Beef Meatballs

Name: Ground Beef Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

These ground beef meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T16:06:38.032Z

Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or simply on their own, these meatballs are versatile and delicious.

        Why You'll Love These Meatballs
        Juicy and tender with every bite
Full of flavor with simple ingredients
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep

      

A Versatile Dish

Ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a variety of cuisines and occasions. You can serve them with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic Italian dinner, or enjoy them in a meatball sub topped with melted cheese. They can also be added to soups or stews for an extra protein boost. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to get creative and tailor this dish to your preferences.

These meatballs can easily adapt to different flavor profiles. By adding spices or herbs such as cumin, coriander, or chili powder, you can transform them into a delightful Mexican-inspired dish. Pairing them with rice or tortillas can create a whole new dining experience. This adaptability makes ground beef meatballs a favorite among home cooks and families alike.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best aspects of these ground beef meatballs is how well they lend themselves to meal prep. You can double or triple the recipe and freeze the leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week. Simply bake a batch, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, just reheat them in the oven or microwave, and dinner is served.

By incorporating meatballs into your meal prep routine, you can save time and reduce the stress of daily cooking. Pair them with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, for a balanced and satisfying meal. This makes it easy to stick to healthy eating habits, even on the busiest of days.

Family-Friendly Fun

These meatballs are not only delicious but also a hit with kids and adults alike. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for little hands, and you can involve your children in the cooking process by having them help with mixing and rolling the meatballs. Cooking together can create lasting memories and instill a love for food and cooking in your family.

Serve these meatballs at your next family gathering or casual get-together, and watch as they quickly disappear. With their appealing taste and easy preparation, they are sure to become a staple in your household meals, bringing everyone together around the table.

Ingredients

Meatball Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Make sure to mix the ingredients well for the best flavor.

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, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

Form Meatballs

Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Serve with your favorite sauce or pasta!

Serving Suggestions

These ground beef meatballs can be served in a variety of ways. For a classic approach, pair them with spaghetti and your favorite marinara sauce. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for a gourmet touch. Alternatively, serve them in a sub roll with melted cheese and sautéed peppers for a hearty sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider serving the meatballs over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or your favorite dressing for a fresh and vibrant meal. These meatballs also work wonderfully in a meatball salad, adding protein and flavor to your leafy greens.

Storage Tips

To keep your meatballs fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, freeze them after they've cooled completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen meatballs, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This helps maintain their flavor and texture. You can reheat them in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave depending on your preference and time constraints.

Nutritional Benefits

Ground beef meatballs not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide essential nutrients. Beef is an excellent source of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth. It also contains important vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which support overall health and energy levels.

By incorporating fresh herbs and vegetables into your meatball recipe, you can enhance their nutritional profile even further. Ingredients like parsley add vitamins and antioxidants, while garlic provides immune-boosting properties. This makes these meatballs not just a tasty dish but a wholesome one, too.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for a leaner option.

→ How do I store leftover meatballs?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

→ What sauce goes well with meatballs?

Marinara sauce, BBQ sauce, or a creamy mushroom sauce all pair wonderfully.