Ground Beef Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
These delicious ground beef meatballs are perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as a tasty appetizer.
Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish that brings comfort to the table. Juicy, flavorful, and versatile, they can be served in many different ways. Whether you pair them with spaghetti, place them in a sub, or enjoy them as finger food, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy and flavorful with every bite
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep or gatherings
The Versatility of Meatballs
Ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you're tossing them with spaghetti and marinara sauce, placing them in a sub roll with melted cheese, or serving them as an appetizer with toothpicks and dipping sauces, these meatballs fit the bill. Their robust flavor and satisfying texture make them a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
You can also customize these meatballs to suit your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture. If you prefer a more herbaceous flavor, experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or thyme. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a great base for culinary creativity.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best aspects of these ground beef meatballs is their suitability for meal prep. You can easily double or triple the batch, allowing you to have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week. Cooked meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for longer storage, making them a convenient option for busy weekdays.
When reheating, simply add them to your favorite sauce on the stovetop or microwave them for a quick meal. You can also toss them in salads, grain bowls, or wraps for a wholesome lunch or dinner. With this recipe, you'll always have a tasty protein option at your fingertips.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start:
Ground Beef Meatballs Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Make sure to have everything ready before cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your meatballs:
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. 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 Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and browned.
Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a classic Italian meal, serve the baked meatballs over al dente spaghetti, topped with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, place them in a sub roll with marinara sauce and melted provolone for a delicious meatball sub.
If you're hosting a gathering, consider offering them as an appetizer. Serve the meatballs with toothpicks alongside a variety of dipping sauces like BBQ, marinara, or a spicy aioli. This way, guests can enjoy them as finger food, making them perfect for parties or game day.
Storing and Freezing
After baking, allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each meatball in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen meatballs, simply reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop in your favorite sauce. This quick and easy process allows you to enjoy homemade meatballs without the hassle of making them from scratch every time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
→ What can I serve with meatballs?
Meatballs are great with spaghetti, on a sub roll, or served as an appetizer with dipping sauces.
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative, just ensure it's cooked thoroughly.
→ How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 160°F (70°C).
Ground Beef Meatballs
These delicious ground beef meatballs are perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as a tasty appetizer.
Created by: Rosalie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Meatballs Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and browned.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 24g