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 chopped parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious and juicy ground beef meatballs that are perfect for pasta dishes or as an appetizer.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T17:00:41.178Z

These ground beef meatballs are a family favorite, combining simple ingredients for a delicious meal. They are versatile and can be served with spaghetti, in a sub, or on their own with a dipping sauce.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flavorful and tender meatballs that everyone will love
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner

      

The Perfect Pairing

Ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile and can elevate a variety of dishes. Whether you serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce, nestled in a sub with melted cheese, or as a standalone appetizer with a dipping sauce, their rich flavor complements many meals. Experiment with different sauces like barbecue or sweet and sour to find your perfect pairing.

For those looking to create a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or roasted vegetables on the side. The balance of flavors and textures will enhance the dining experience, making it feel both hearty and satisfying. Plus, these meatballs are a great way to add protein and flavor to your plate.

Meal Prep Made Easy

These ground beef meatballs are not just delicious; they're also ideal for meal prep. Once cooked, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. This makes them a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need a quick and nutritious meal.

To reheat, simply place them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. They can easily be added to salads, grain bowls, or pasta dishes, making them a flexible choice for any meal. Save time in the kitchen while still enjoying home-cooked flavors with this easy meatball recipe.

Customization Options

One of the best things about making your own ground beef meatballs is the ability to customize them to your taste. Feel free to mix in additional ingredients like chopped onions, bell peppers, or even spices such as cumin or paprika for an extra kick. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

For those who are gluten-sensitive, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with oats. This recipe is incredibly forgiving, allowing you to adjust it according to dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Experimenting with different flavors can turn this simple meatball recipe into a family favorite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your meatballs:

Ingredients

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 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your meatballs:

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

Bake

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

Serve

Remove from the oven and serve hot with your favorite sauce or pasta.

Enjoy your homemade meatballs!

Storage Tips

To keep your meatballs fresh, make sure they cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Refrigerated meatballs can last up to four days, while frozen meatballs can retain their quality for about three months. When freezing, lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together.

Label your containers with the date and contents to easily identify them later. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed. This method ensures you always have a delicious meal on hand.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs shine in a variety of dishes. Serve them atop a bed of spaghetti with a hearty marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal. Alternatively, you can create a meatball sub by placing them in a toasted hoagie roll, smothered in marinara and topped with melted cheese for a comforting sandwich.

For a lighter option, try pairing them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also skewer them on toothpicks for an easy appetizer at parties. The possibilities are endless, making these meatballs a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Cooking Tips

When mixing the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed to ensure a tender meatball. If you find the mixture too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind it together. On the other hand, if it’s too dry, a splash of milk or broth can help achieve the right consistency.

For extra flavor, consider browning the meatballs in a skillet for a few minutes before baking them in the oven. This step adds a nice crust and enhances the overall taste. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to create your perfect meatball!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative.

→ How do I store leftover meatballs?

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

→ Can I freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What sauce is best for meatballs?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but barbecue or teriyaki sauce also works well!