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 onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously seasoned ground beef meatballs, perfect for pasta, subs, or as a tasty appetizer.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T17:42:39.568Z

Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. They're versatile, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

        Reasons You'll Love These Meatballs
        Juicy and flavorful with a perfect blend of spices
Easy to make and customize with your favorite seasonings
Great for meal prep and freezing for later use

      

The Perfect Meatball for Any Occasion

Ground beef meatballs are not only a versatile dish but also a culinary delight that can adapt to various meals. Whether you're preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting a lively gathering, these meatballs can elevate any occasion. Their juicy texture and rich flavors make them a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both young and old alike.

These meatballs are perfect for serving over spaghetti with marinara sauce, as a filling for hearty subs, or even as an appetizer at parties. The balance of seasonings ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, making them an ideal choice for any meal. Plus, they’re easy to customize, allowing you to add your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best things about these ground beef meatballs is their convenience for meal prep. You can easily whip up a large batch and freeze them for later use, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights. Simply bake the meatballs as directed, let them cool, and then store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. This makes it easy to pull out a few when you need a quick meal.

When you have homemade meatballs ready in the freezer, dinner becomes a breeze. Just reheat them in the oven or pan-fry them with your favorite sauce for a delicious meal in no time. This not only helps in managing your time better but also ensures you have healthy homemade options readily available, making it easier to resist temptation from takeout.

Customizing Your Meatballs

The beauty of these meatballs lies in their versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. For instance, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture. Alternatively, for a more savory flavor, experiment with different cheeses such as feta or mozzarella.

You can also switch up the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Additionally, for a lighter version, try substituting half the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This flexibility allows you to create a dish that not only tastes fantastic but also fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Ingredients

For the 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 onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

For Cooking

2 tbsp olive oil
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Make sure to gather all ingredients before you start!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Mix the Ingredients

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

Form the Meatballs

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

Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until they are browned and cooked through.

Simmer in Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the baked meatballs and pour marinara sauce over them. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Serve

Serve the meatballs with your favorite pasta or on a sub roll!

Enjoy your homemade ground beef meatballs!

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness and quality of your leftover meatballs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days, allowing you to enjoy them as part of your meal prep. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked meatballs. When properly sealed, they can stay good for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen meatballs, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in a skillet with a bit of sauce or in the oven until warmed through. This ensures they retain their juicy flavor and texture, making for a quick and satisfying meal.

Pairing Suggestions

These ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing. For a classic Italian dinner, serve them over a bed of spaghetti and top with marinara sauce and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This comforting combination is a family favorite that never goes out of style.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider a fresh salad topped with meatballs for a protein-packed meal. You can also serve them on crusty sub rolls with melted provolone cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these meatballs will surely impress!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ What can I serve with meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with pasta, on a sub roll, or even with mashed potatoes.