Ground Beef Meatballs

Name: Ground Beef Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup marinara sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious and hearty, these ground beef meatballs are perfect for pasta, subs, or as a standalone dish.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T16:18:27.799Z

These ground beef meatballs are a family favorite, full of flavor and perfect for any meal. Whether served with spaghetti, in a sub, or on their own, they're sure to please!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy and flavorful meatballs made with simple ingredients
Versatile dish that can be paired with various sides
Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Ground beef meatballs are an incredibly versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, preparing a casual get-together, or simply craving a comforting meal, these meatballs fit the bill. They can be served with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic Italian feast or placed in a sub roll for a hearty sandwich. Their adaptability makes them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Another great aspect of these meatballs is their ability to be customized. Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices, or mix in some grated vegetables for added nutrition. This flexibility allows you to tailor the meatballs to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making them a favorite for everyone at the table.

Meal Prep Made Easy

If you're looking to streamline your weekly meal prep, these ground beef meatballs are an excellent choice. You can easily double or triple the recipe and freeze extra meatballs for later use. Simply cook them as instructed, allow them to cool, and then store them in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven or microwave, and they taste just as delicious as when they were freshly made.

Additionally, these meatballs are great for batch cooking. Prepare them ahead of time and pair with different sides throughout the week, such as rice, vegetables, or salad. This way, you can enjoy a variety of meals without spending too much time in the kitchen every day.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To achieve the best texture in your meatballs, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Mixing just until everything is combined helps keep the meatballs tender and juicy. Also, using a combination of lean ground beef and some fat will enhance flavor while maintaining moisture. If you're uncertain about the seasoning, consider cooking a small test meatball first to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Another helpful tip is to let the meatballs rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before cooking. This allows them to set up and helps maintain their shape during cooking. If you're cooking them in batches, keep the cooked meatballs warm in the oven at a low temperature until all are ready to serve.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste

For Cooking

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup marinara sauce (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start!

Instructions

Mix Ingredients

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

Form Meatballs

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

Cook Meatballs

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Add Sauce

If using, pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Serve warm with your favorite sides!

Serving Suggestions

These ground beef meatballs can be served in numerous ways, making them incredibly adaptable. They shine when placed atop a bed of spaghetti, smothered in marinara sauce, and sprinkled with fresh basil or grated cheese. Alternatively, for a more casual option, serve them in a toasted sub roll with melted cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich that’s sure to please any crowd.

For a lighter option, consider pairing these meatballs with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Their rich flavor complements a variety of side dishes, allowing you to create a balanced meal without much effort.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Ensure they are cooled completely before transferring them to an airtight container. If you have a larger batch, consider freezing them; they can last up to three months in the freezer. Just make sure to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

When reheating, try not to overcook them, as this can lead to dryness. For best results, reheat in a skillet with a splash of sauce to keep them moist, or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Nutritional Benefits

Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, providing essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with the added nutrients from fresh parsley and garlic, these meatballs not only satisfy hunger but also contribute to a balanced diet. The breadcrumbs used in the recipe add carbohydrates, providing energy for your day.

Moreover, you can easily make this recipe healthier by opting for leaner cuts of beef or substituting some of the meat with ground turkey or chicken. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavor of meatballs while managing your nutritional intake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ What can I serve these meatballs with?

They pair well with pasta, rice, or on a sub roll with marinara sauce.