Ground Beef Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
These ground beef meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as a tasty appetizer!
Ground beef meatballs have been a family favorite for generations. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from spaghetti to meatball subs. This recipe ensures that your meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy and tender texture that satisfies every bite
- Versatile for various dishes or as a standalone snack
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
The Perfect Pairing: Meatballs and Sauce
Ground beef meatballs are a classic addition to a variety of sauces. Whether you prefer a rich marinara or a creamy Alfredo, these meatballs soak up flavors beautifully. To elevate your dish, consider simmering the meatballs in your sauce for an additional 10 minutes after they are baked. This not only enhances the taste but also keeps the meatballs moist and delicious.
For a more unique twist, try pairing your meatballs with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. The contrast of flavors will surprise your taste buds and add an exciting element to your meal. Serve them on skewers for a fun appetizer at your next gathering!
Customizing Your Meatballs
One of the best things about meatballs is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to match your personal taste or the theme of your meal. For a Mediterranean flair, add chopped olives, feta cheese, or a sprinkle of oregano. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mixture.
You can also substitute ground beef with other meats such as turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different meats may require adjustments.
Storing and Reheating Meatballs
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing meatballs is a breeze. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag for easy storage.
When reheating, you can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or heat them gently in the microwave. If you’re using sauce, simmer them on the stove until heated through. This will retain their moisture and keep them flavorful.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Meatballs
- 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
- 1/4 cup milk
Mix all the ingredients well to form your meatballs.
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix until well combined.
Form Meatballs
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Bake the Meatballs
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
Serve your meatballs with spaghetti, in a sub, or on their own with your favorite dipping sauce.
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 with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, place them in a toasted sub roll with melted cheese for a hearty meatball sandwich.
For a lighter option, enjoy your meatballs on a bed of mixed greens or as part of a veggie platter with dipping sauces. They also make great appetizers for parties when served with toothpicks and a variety of sauces for dipping.
Nutritional Benefits
Ground beef is a good source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins, making these meatballs not only delicious but also a nutritious choice. Pair them with whole grain pasta or a side of vegetables to create a balanced meal that fuels your body.
By making your own meatballs, you can control the ingredients, reducing preservatives and unhealthy additives often found in store-bought versions. This means you can enjoy a comforting dish that aligns with your health goals and dietary needs.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
To ensure your meatballs are juicy and tender, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Just combine them until everything is well integrated; this helps maintain a light texture. Also, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
Invest in a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs. This not only makes the shaping process quicker but also ensures that they cook uniformly. Lastly, testing one meatball for doneness before serving is a great way to confirm that they are cooked through without drying them out.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter 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 the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just thaw them before cooking.
→ What sauce goes well with meatballs?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but they also pair well with barbecue sauce or a creamy garlic sauce.
Ground Beef Meatballs
These ground beef meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as a tasty appetizer!
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Meatballs
- 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
- 1/4 cup milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 25g