Ground Beef Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
These delicious ground beef meatballs are perfect for any occasion, whether served with spaghetti or as a tasty appetizer.
Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish enjoyed by many around the world. These meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and can be paired with various sauces and sides.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy and flavorful with a perfect blend of spices
- Versatile and can be used in various dishes
- Easy to make and great for meal prep
Perfect for Any Occasion
Ground beef meatballs are an incredibly versatile dish that can fit seamlessly into a variety of meals and occasions. Whether you're preparing a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply looking for a delicious snack, these meatballs are sure to impress. Their rich flavor and hearty texture make them a satisfying choice for both casual and formal settings, allowing you to serve them with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own as an appetizer.
One of the best aspects of these meatballs is their adaptability. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or add your favorite herbs and spices to give them a personal touch. No matter how you choose to serve them, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser.
An Easy Meal Prep Option
In today's busy world, finding quick and easy meal solutions is essential. These ground beef meatballs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to make a large batch and store them for later use. After cooking, simply let them cool, and then freeze them in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, you can reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop, making dinner a breeze even on the busiest of nights.
By preparing these meatballs in advance, you can save time and reduce stress during the week. Pair them with your favorite sides or sauces, and you have a quick meal ready to go. Plus, the flavors often deepen and improve after freezing, making them even more delicious when you pull them out for a quick dinner.
Health Benefits of Homemade Meatballs
Making meatballs at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you’re serving a healthier option compared to store-bought versions. By using lean ground beef and fresh herbs, you can create a dish that is not only tasty but also nutritious. The addition of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese adds texture and flavor without overwhelming the dish with unhealthy fillers or preservatives.
Moreover, ground beef is a great source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins. When you make these meatballs yourself, you can also experiment with adding vegetables or whole grains to the mixture, enhancing their nutritional profile even further. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal that supports your health goals.
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 salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions
Steps
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
Form the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
Add the Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, cover, and let simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Serving Suggestions
These ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can pair them with a rich marinara sauce and serve them over spaghetti for a classic Italian dish. Alternatively, try them in a meatball sub with melted cheese for a delicious sandwich option. For a lighter meal, serve them on a bed of sautéed greens or alongside a refreshing salad.
If you're hosting a party, consider serving the meatballs as appetizers. Skewer them with toothpicks and provide a dipping sauce, such as marinara or a spicy aioli, for guests to enjoy. They can also be a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board, adding a hearty protein option alongside cheeses, olives, and crackers.
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of your ground beef meatballs, it’s important to store them properly. If you have leftovers, allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When freezing, consider laying them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a container to prevent sticking.
When reheating, it’s best to do so gently to keep the meatballs moist and tender. You can reheat them in the oven at a low temperature or gently simmer them in sauce on the stovetop. Avoid using a microwave, as this can make them tough and dry.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative.
→ How do I store leftover meatballs?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool them completely before freezing.
→ What can I serve with meatballs?
They are great with pasta, on a sub sandwich, or served with a side salad.
Ground Beef Meatballs
These delicious ground beef meatballs are perfect for any occasion, whether served with spaghetti or as a tasty appetizer.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
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 salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, cover, and let simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 18g