Ground Beef Meatballs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

These juicy ground beef meatballs are packed with flavor and are perfect for any pasta dish or on their own as an appetizer.

Aubrey Whitman

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T16:15:47.954Z

Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish loved by many. They can be served with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or on a platter as an appetizer. This recipe ensures that your meatballs are flavorful and moist, thanks to the combination of herbs and breadcrumbs.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Juicy, flavorful meatballs that are easy to make
  • Perfectly seasoned with herbs and spices
  • Versatile dish that pairs well with various sauces and sides

The Perfect Addition to Your Meal

Ground beef meatballs are a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether served with spaghetti, on a sub sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad, these meatballs are sure to impress. Their juicy texture and robust flavor make them a favorite among both kids and adults alike. You can easily whip them up for a weeknight dinner or make a larger batch for a family gathering.

One of the best parts about these meatballs is their adaptability. You can customize them with your favorite herbs and spices or pair them with various sauces. From marinara to creamy pesto, the options are endless. This allows you to enjoy a new taste experience each time you serve them.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure that your meatballs come out perfectly every time, be mindful of the mixing process. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so gently combine the ingredients just until they are incorporated. Additionally, using lean ground beef will give you a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or juiciness.

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating chopped onions or bell peppers into the mixture. Sautéing these ingredients beforehand can enhance their sweetness and provide a savory depth to your meatballs. Just remember to adjust the breadcrumbs to maintain the right texture.

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

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Cooking Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

Form Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned.

Serve the meatballs with your favorite sauce or enjoy them on their own!

Serving Suggestions

These ground beef meatballs can be served in various ways. For a classic Italian meal, toss them with spaghetti and marinara sauce, and top with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. If you’re looking for a satisfying appetizer, serve them with toothpicks and a side of marinara or barbecue sauce for dipping.

For a nutritious twist, serve them over a bed of sautéed vegetables or with a quinoa salad. Pairing them with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad can round out the meal beautifully. The versatility of these meatballs makes them a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you have a larger batch, consider freezing them for longer storage. Freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When reheating, you can use the oven, microwave, or stovetop. For the best results, reheat them in a covered skillet over medium heat with a splash of sauce to keep them moist. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your meatballs even after they’ve been stored.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked meatballs. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with meatballs?

Meatballs are great with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or served with toothpicks as an appetizer.

→ How can I make them spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.

Ground Beef Meatballs

These juicy ground beef meatballs are packed with flavor and are perfect for any pasta dish or on their own as an appetizer.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Aubrey Whitman

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Meatball Ingredients

  1. 1 pound 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. 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

Step 03

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 04

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 25g