Ground Beef Meatballs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously seasoned ground beef meatballs that are perfect for any meal.

Aubrey Whitman

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T16:09:36.718Z

These ground beef meatballs are a family favorite, packed with flavor and perfect for pasta, subs, or simply on their own.

Why You'll Love These Meatballs

  • Juicy and tender with a perfect blend of spices
  • Versatile for various dishes from spaghetti to meatball subs
  • Easy to make and great for meal prep

The Perfect Meatball Experience

Ground beef meatballs are a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Their juicy, tender texture combined with a medley of spices creates a satisfying bite that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Whether served on a plate with marinara sauce or nestled in a delicious sub, these meatballs elevate any meal to a whole new level. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize the flavors to suit your palate.

When it comes to seasoning, the right blend of herbs and spices can make or break your dish. This recipe incorporates Italian seasoning, garlic, and fresh parsley, creating a fragrant aroma that will fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it hard to resist going back for seconds. Plus, they make a great addition to family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the greatest benefits of making ground beef meatballs is their versatility and ease of preparation. They can be made in large batches and stored for later use, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Simply cook a double or triple batch and freeze them for quick and convenient meals throughout the week. With just a few minutes of reheating, you can enjoy a hearty meal in no time.

These meatballs can be used in numerous dishes, from classic spaghetti and meatballs to hearty meatball subs or even served atop a fresh salad. Their adaptability means you can transform leftovers into new meals, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having delicious homemade meals ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your delicious ground beef meatballs, the possibilities are endless. For a classic Italian meal, pair them with spaghetti and marinara sauce, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. If you’re in the mood for something different, consider making meatball subs by placing them in a crusty hoagie roll, smothered in marinara and melted cheese.

For a lighter option, serve the meatballs over a bed of sautéed zucchini noodles or alongside a vibrant salad. They also make a great finger food at parties when served with toothpicks and a variety of dipping sauces. The versatility of these meatballs means they can easily adapt to any cuisine or occasion, making them a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Ground Beef Meatballs

  • 1 lb 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup milk

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until well combined.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix until fully incorporated.

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 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Serve hot with your favorite sauce or on a sub roll!

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To achieve the perfect meatball, ensure that all ingredients are well combined but avoid overmixing the meat. Overworking the beef can lead to tough meatballs. Also, allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after shaping before baking. This helps them hold their shape and ensures even cooking throughout.

If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for unique flavor profiles.

Storing and Reheating

After baking, allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, you can simply warm them in the oven or microwave, ensuring they are heated through without losing their tender texture.

For frozen meatballs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating. Alternatively, you can add them directly to sauces or soups while cooking, allowing them to heat up while infusing the dish with flavor.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner 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 freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What sauces pair well with meatballs?

Marinara, BBQ sauce, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce are great choices.

Ground Beef Meatballs

Deliciously seasoned ground beef meatballs that are perfect for any meal.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Aubrey Whitman

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ground Beef Meatballs

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  5. 1 egg
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 1 teaspoon salt
  8. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  9. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  10. 1/4 cup milk

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 03

Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 04

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 25g