Ground Beef Meatballs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously tender and flavorful, these ground beef meatballs are perfect for a hearty meal or as a tasty appetizer.

Daphne Collins

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:12:33.190Z

These ground beef meatballs are a family favorite, combining simple ingredients for an unforgettable flavor. Perfect for spaghetti nights or served with a dipping sauce!

Why You'll Love These Meatballs

  • Juicy and flavorful with every bite
  • Versatile for various dishes or as a snack
  • Easy to make and a hit at any gathering

The Perfect Meatball for Any Occasion

Ground beef meatballs are a classic dish that can elevate any meal, whether you're serving them as a main course or an appetizer. Their juicy texture and rich flavor make them a favorite among family and friends. These meatballs are incredibly versatile, allowing you to pair them with spaghetti, serve them in a sub sandwich, or even enjoy them on their own with a dipping sauce.

These meatballs are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. They are perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even parties where you want to impress your guests. Plus, the leftovers—if there are any—make for a delightful lunch the next day.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To achieve the best texture in your meatballs, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Just combine them until they are well incorporated. This will help keep the meatballs tender rather than dense. Additionally, ensure that your ground beef is fresh and of high quality, as this significantly influences the flavor and juiciness of the final product.

Baking the meatballs in the oven not only makes the process hands-off but also allows for even cooking. If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can broil them for the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist interior. Don't forget to rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even browning.

Ingredients

Meatball 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 salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Mix these ingredients together for delicious meatballs!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Form Meatballs

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

Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

Serve warm with your favorite sauce or pasta!

Serving Suggestions

These ground beef meatballs can be served in various ways, making them a hit in any setting. Pair them with a rich marinara sauce and spaghetti for a classic Italian dinner. Alternatively, serve them in slider buns with cheese and pickles for a fun party snack. You can also toss them in barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor that's perfect for game day.

For a lighter option, consider serving the meatballs with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. This way, you can enjoy the savory goodness without the extra calories. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily customize the sides to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover meatballs, you're in luck! They store well in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to three months, making them a convenient option for busy evenings. Just make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in the freezer to prevent ice crystals from forming.

To reheat, simply place the meatballs in a baking dish with a splash of sauce and cover them with foil. Heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help retain their moisture and flavor. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, but be sure to do so in short intervals to avoid drying them out.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer and transfer to a bag once frozen.

→ What sauce goes well with meatballs?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but BBQ sauce or a sweet and sour sauce also works well.

Ground Beef Meatballs

Deliciously tender and flavorful, these ground beef meatballs are perfect for a hearty meal or as a tasty appetizer.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Daphne Collins

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Meatball Ingredients

  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 egg
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 1 tsp salt
  8. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  9. 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g