Ground Beef Meatballs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious and juicy ground beef meatballs that are perfect for pasta, subs, or as a stand-alone appetizer.

Aubrey Whitman

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T17:39:34.026Z

These ground beef meatballs are not only easy to make but are also packed with flavor. They can be served with your favorite pasta sauce or enjoyed on their own as a tasty appetizer.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Juicy and tender meatballs that are bursting with flavor
  • Versatile dish perfect for any meal or occasion
  • Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners

Perfect for Any Occasion

Ground beef meatballs are a timeless classic that can elevate any meal. Whether you're hosting a family gathering, preparing a cozy weeknight dinner, or planning a festive get-together, these meatballs fit right in. Their mouthwatering flavor and appealing presentation make them an ideal choice for both casual and formal occasions.

The versatility of these meatballs is unmatched. Serve them with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a traditional Italian feast, or pile them into a sub roll with melted cheese for a hearty sandwich. You can even enjoy them as appetizers at parties, paired with your favorite dipping sauce. No matter how you choose to serve them, they are sure to impress your guests.

Easy to Make

One of the best aspects of this ground beef meatball recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can whip up a batch of these flavorful meatballs in no time. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Mixing the ingredients is quick, and forming the meatballs is a fun task that even kids can help with. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making them a convenient option for meal prep. Just pop them in the skillet when you're ready to cook, and you'll have a delicious meal in about 20 minutes.

Flavorful and Satisfying

The combination of ground beef, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs creates a robust flavor profile that sets these meatballs apart. The grated cheese adds richness, while the garlic and parsley provide a fresh, aromatic touch. Each bite is a delightful explosion of savory goodness, making them a satisfying choice for any meat lover.

These meatballs are not only tasty but also filling, ensuring that everyone at your table will leave satisfied. You can easily customize the flavors by adding your favorite spices or herbs, making this recipe a canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether you prefer them spicy or mild, these meatballs can be tailored to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Ground Beef Meatballs

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

Mix the ingredients well before forming the meatballs.

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

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

Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.

Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 20 minutes.

Serve with pasta 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. Consider pairing them with a rich marinara sauce and spaghetti for a classic Italian dinner. Another delicious option is to serve them in a toasted sub roll, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and a drizzle of marinara, creating an irresistible meatball sub.

For a lighter option, you can serve them on a bed of sautéed vegetables or alongside a fresh salad. Their robust flavor also pairs well with dipping sauces like barbecue or ranch, making them perfect for entertaining. No matter how you choose to serve them, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers after enjoying your meatballs, don’t worry! They store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. When reheating, a quick warm-up in the skillet or the microwave will bring them back to life without losing their juicy texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw and reheat them, and you'll have a quick and delicious meal ready in no time.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

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

→ How do I store leftover meatballs?

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

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What sauce pairs well with these meatballs?

They go great with marinara sauce, barbecue sauce, or even a creamy mushroom sauce.

Ground Beef Meatballs

Delicious and juicy ground beef meatballs that are perfect for pasta, subs, or as a stand-alone appetizer.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Aubrey Whitman

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ground Beef Meatballs

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  5. 1 clove garlic, minced
  6. 1 egg
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 03

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 20 minutes.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 25g