Ground Beef Meatballs

Name: Ground Beef Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

These delicious ground beef meatballs are perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as a standalone appetizer. Easy to make and packed with flavor!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T18:06:41.145Z

Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish loved by many. They can be easily customized with various herbs and spices. Enjoy them with spaghetti, in a sub, or on their own!

        Why You Will Love These Meatballs
        Juicy and flavorful with every bite
Perfectly seasoned for a savory experience
Versatile for many dishes and occasions

      

The Perfect Base for Your Meal

These ground beef meatballs are an excellent base for a variety of meals. Whether you're tossing them in a rich marinara sauce over spaghetti, adding them to a sub sandwich with melted cheese, or serving them on their own with a side of dipping sauce, they fit seamlessly into any dining experience. The versatility of these meatballs allows you to get creative in the kitchen, making it easy to whip up a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Not only do they complement traditional Italian dishes, but they also work well in Asian-inspired meals when combined with a sweet soy glaze or served alongside rice and vegetables. Their adaptability makes them a staple recipe to keep on hand for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

A Flavorful Experience

One of the standout features of these meatballs is their incredible flavor profile. The combination of garlic, onion powder, and Italian seasoning creates a savory blend that permeates each meatball, ensuring you enjoy a burst of flavor with every bite. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese adds a delightful nuttiness, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the other ingredients.

Furthermore, the freshness of chopped parsley not only contributes to the flavor but also adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing. This thoughtful mix of ingredients ensures that your meatballs will be the highlight of any meal.

Easy to Prepare and Cook

Preparing these ground beef meatballs is a breeze, making them perfect for cooks of all skill levels. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a batch ready for the oven in no time. Simply mix, shape, and bake—it's that simple! This ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.

Additionally, these meatballs are great for meal prep. You can make a large batch, freeze them uncooked, and bake them fresh whenever you need a quick and delicious meal. This not only saves time but also ensures you always have a tasty option on hand.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your meatballs:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

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, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. 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 the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.

Enjoy your delicious meatballs with your favorite sauce or side!

Storage Tips

To store leftover meatballs, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, making for a convenient meal option later.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen meatballs, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you're reheating from frozen, you may want to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs shine when served with a variety of sauces and sides. For a classic Italian twist, serve them with spaghetti and marinara sauce, topped with fresh basil and more grated Parmesan. Alternatively, you could serve them on a toasted sub roll with marinara and melted mozzarella cheese for a delicious meatball sub.

For a lighter option, pair the meatballs with a refreshing salad or steamed vegetables. Their robust flavor also makes them an excellent addition to a charcuterie board, where they can be enjoyed alongside cheeses, olives, and crusty bread. The possibilities are endless!

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of these meatballs is their adaptability. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. If you prefer a more herby flavor, experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of parsley.

You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. Additionally, you can mix in vegetables like finely grated zucchini or carrots for added nutrition and moisture. The options are limitless, allowing you to create a meatball that is uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

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

→ How can I store leftover meatballs?

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

→ Can I freeze these meatballs?

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

→ What sauce pairs well with these meatballs?

Marinara sauce, BBQ sauce, or even a creamy mushroom sauce are great options.