Ground Beef Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
These ground beef meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or served with a dipping sauce.
Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you enjoy them with spaghetti or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You'll Love These Meatballs
- Juicy and flavorful with every bite
- Versatile for various dishes or as a snack
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
Perfect for Any Occasion
Ground beef meatballs are a fantastic dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Whether you're hosting a family gathering, preparing a cozy dinner for two, or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these meatballs fit the bill perfectly. Their savory flavor and satisfying texture make them a hit with both children and adults, ensuring that everyone leaves the table happy.
One of the best things about this meatball recipe is its versatility. They can be served in a variety of ways, whether nestled on a bed of spaghetti, tucked into a sub roll with marinara sauce, or simply enjoyed on their own with a dipping sauce. This adaptability makes them a staple in many households.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Creating delicious meatballs doesn't have to be complicated. This recipe uses basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Ground beef forms the hearty base, while breadcrumbs provide the perfect binding agent. The addition of Parmesan cheese and herbs adds depth of flavor that elevates your meatballs from ordinary to extraordinary.
Even if you're short on time, there’s no need to compromise on taste. These meatballs are quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights. The straightforward preparation process means you can whip them up in no time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
One of the great benefits of meatballs is their make-ahead potential. You can prepare them in advance and freeze them for later use. Simply shape the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for storage. They can be cooked directly from frozen, making dinner a breeze on those busy nights.
When you're ready to enjoy your meatballs, simply bake them from frozen or simmer them in your favorite sauce until heated through. This allows you to always have a delicious meal on hand, ready to be enjoyed whenever the craving strikes.
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 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
Mix all ingredients thoroughly before shaping into meatballs.
Cooking Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix until just combined.
Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
Bake the Meatballs
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Serve the meatballs with your favorite sauce or alongside pasta.
Serving Suggestions
These ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. For a classic Italian meal, pair them with spaghetti and your favorite marinara sauce. You can also serve them on a sub roll, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara for a delicious meatball sub.
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider serving them over a bed of zoodles (zucchini noodles) or alongside a fresh salad. They also make a great appetizer when served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue, ranch, or a spicy marinara.
Variations to Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, there’s always room to get creative! Consider adding different spices or herbs to the mix, such as cumin for a smoky flavor or fresh basil for a twist. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like feta or cheddar, to change up the flavor profile.
For a healthier option, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This will give you a lighter meatball, perfect for those looking to reduce their red meat intake while still enjoying a hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage is essential to maintain the flavor and texture of your meatballs. Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is the best option. Just be sure to label your containers with the date, so you know when to use them.
To reheat, you can bake them in the oven or heat them in a skillet with a little sauce to keep them moist. Just be sure not to overcook them during reheating to ensure they remain juicy and flavorful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
→ How do I store leftover meatballs?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze cooked meatballs?
Yes, cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave.
→ What can I serve with meatballs?
These meatballs are great with spaghetti, in subs, or served with a dipping sauce like marinara.
Ground Beef Meatballs
These ground beef meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or served with a dipping sauce.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
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 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix until just combined.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g