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 bread crumbs; 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 savory ground beef meatballs that are perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T17:36:35.693Z

These ground beef meatballs are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Serve them with spaghetti, in a sandwich, or simply on their own with a dipping sauce.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy and flavorful with every bite
Perfectly seasoned for a crowd-pleasing dish
Great for meal prep or quick dinners

      

A Versatile Classic

Ground beef meatballs are a timeless classic that can fit into any meal plan or occasion. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer at a party or integrating them into a hearty spaghetti dish, these meatballs shine with their juicy texture and rich flavor. They can be enjoyed on their own, in a sub sandwich with marinara sauce, or as a protein-packed addition to salads. Their versatility makes them a staple in many kitchens, providing endless opportunities for culinary creativity.

One of the best aspects of these meatballs is their ability to absorb flavors from various sauces and spices. Pair them with barbecue sauce for a tasty twist or serve them alongside a creamy Alfredo for a comforting dish. Their adaptability means you can easily switch up ingredients or seasonings based on what you have on hand, making them both convenient and delicious.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to streamline your weeknight dinners, ground beef meatballs are an excellent choice for meal prep. They can be made in batches and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, ready to be reheated whenever you're in a pinch. Simply prepare a large batch, let them cool, and store them in airtight containers. This way, you can enjoy a quick and satisfying meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch every time.

These meatballs also reheat beautifully. Whether you choose to microwave them, bake them in the oven, or simmer them in sauce, they maintain their juicy texture and flavor. This convenience makes them ideal for busy families or individuals looking to save time while still enjoying home-cooked meals.

Kid-Friendly and Fun

Ground beef meatballs are not only delicious but also a hit with kids! Their small size and savory taste make them perfect for little hands and picky eaters. You can involve your children in the cooking process, allowing them to help shape the meatballs or mix the ingredients. This hands-on activity can inspire a love for cooking and create lasting family memories in the kitchen.

Consider serving the meatballs with toothpicks as a fun party snack or creating a DIY meatball sub bar where everyone can customize their own sandwiches. This interactive approach adds an element of enjoyment to mealtime and encourages kids to try new flavors and combinations.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup bread crumbs
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

Mix all the ingredients well for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Mix Ingredients

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

Shape Meatballs

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

Bake Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storing and Freezing Meatballs

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality of your meatballs. After cooking and cooling them down, you can store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer without losing their flavor or texture.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen meatballs, simply reheat them from frozen in a sauce on the stovetop or bake them in the oven. This makes meal planning incredibly easy, allowing you to have a delicious protein option at your fingertips.

Serving Suggestions

There are countless ways to serve ground beef meatballs that can elevate your meal. One popular option is to serve them over pasta with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a classic spaghetti and meatballs dish. Alternatively, consider serving them with mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting dinner option that the whole family will love.

For a lighter option, try serving the meatballs on a bed of greens with a light vinaigrette dressing or alongside roasted vegetables. This not only adds nutritional value to your meal but also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of making meatballs is the ability to customize them to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a leaner option. You can also add various herbs and spices to create your signature flavor. Adding diced bell peppers or onions to the mixture can introduce additional flavor and texture.

For those who love a bit of heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the meatball mixture. This flexibility allows you to create variations that can cater to different palates, making every meal unique and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What's a good sauce to serve with these meatballs?

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