Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe

Name: Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe
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 clove garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Marinara sauce; Cooked spaghetti or sub rolls

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Discover the ease and flavor of these Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs, perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious appetizer for gatherings.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:40:15.671Z

This Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe combines simplicity with delicious flavors, making it a family favorite. With minimal prep time and a quick bake, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time!

        Why You'll Love These Meatballs
        Juicy and flavorful meatballs that everyone will enjoy
Versatile for pasta, subs, or as a standalone snack
Quick preparation and cooking time, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

When life gets hectic, quick and delicious meals are essential. These Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs fit perfectly into your busy schedule, allowing you to prepare a wholesome dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up these savory delights in no time, making them an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.

Simply mix the ingredients, form the meatballs, and let the oven do the work. This hands-off cooking method ensures you can spend more time with your family or tackling other tasks, all while enjoying a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Versatile and Flavorful

One of the greatest advantages of these meatballs is their versatility. They can be paired with a variety of dishes or served on their own as a delightful snack. Whether you choose to toss them with spaghetti and marinara sauce, nestle them in a sub roll with melted cheese, or serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering, they never fail to impress.

Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the combination of ground beef, herbs, and spices. The addition of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley elevates their taste, making them a hit at any meal.

The Secret to Juicy Meatballs

Achieving juicy meatballs is all about the right balance of ingredients. Using a combination of ground beef with breadcrumbs and an egg not only helps bind the meatballs but also keeps them moist during baking. The egg acts as a natural binder while the breadcrumbs absorb some of the juices released during cooking, ensuring every bite remains tender and flavorful.

Additionally, don't hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices. While this recipe has a classic Italian flavor profile, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Add some crushed red pepper for heat or swap out parsley for basil to give it a fresh twist.

Ingredients

Meatball Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 clove garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Serving

Marinara sauce
Cooked spaghetti or sub rolls

Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

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

Form Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked and browned.

Serve

Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over spaghetti or in sub rolls.

Enjoy your quick and delicious meatballs!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them is a breeze. Place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. They also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. Just let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option. Pair them with fresh marinara sauce to restore their delightful flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

These meatballs are incredibly adaptable and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a classic Italian dinner, serve them over spaghetti with a generous helping of marinara sauce, topped with extra Parmesan cheese. If you're in the mood for something different, consider serving them in a sub roll with melted mozzarella and a side of garlic bread for a satisfying sandwich.

For a lighter option, try serving meatballs on a bed of zucchini noodles or with a fresh salad. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily create a meal that fits any occasion.

Why Make Them from Scratch?

Making meatballs from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives often found in store-bought versions. Plus, the flavor is unbeatable! Homemade meatballs are customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your liking, ensuring they are always fresh and delicious.

Furthermore, involving family members in the preparation can be a fun activity. Kids love helping to mix the ingredients and shape the meatballs, making it a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories in the kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these meatballs in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with meatballs?

Meatballs are great with spaghetti, on sub rolls, or served as appetizers with toothpicks and dipping sauce.

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as alternatives to beef.

→ How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).