Ground Beef Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
These delicious ground beef meatballs are perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as a tasty appetizer. Juicy and flavorful, they're sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ground beef meatballs are a staple in many households. They are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sauces and sides. Whether served over spaghetti, in a sub, or on their own, these meatballs deliver a comforting and satisfying meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy and flavorful with a perfect blend of spices
- Easy to make and perfect for batch cooking
- Great for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners
Perfect for Any Occasion
Ground beef meatballs are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic choice for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or looking for hearty appetizers for game day, these meatballs fit the bill perfectly. They can be served with marinara sauce over spaghetti, nestled in a sub with melted cheese, or simply enjoyed on their own with your favorite dipping sauce. Their adaptability ensures that they will please every palate, making them a reliable go-to for any occasion.
These meatballs are not just for special occasions; they're also a great addition to your weeknight meals. With minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch and have them ready for a quick dinner. Pair them with a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite pasta, and you have a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, the leftovers can easily be reheated for lunches, adding convenience to your busy week.
The Secret to Juiciness
One of the key factors that make these ground beef meatballs so delicious is the careful balance of ingredients. The combination of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and milk not only adds flavor but also helps retain moisture during cooking. This means that each meatball is not only flavorful but also juicy and tender. Avoiding overmixing the meat is also crucial; this ensures a light texture, preventing the meatballs from becoming dense and tough.
Another tip to enhance juiciness is to use ground beef with a higher fat content, such as 80/20. The extra fat contributes to a richer flavor and keeps the meatballs moist as they bake. If you prefer a leaner option, consider adding a small amount of olive oil to the mixture, which can help maintain moisture without sacrificing flavor. These little adjustments can elevate your meatballs from good to truly unforgettable.
Meal Prep Made Easy
These ground beef meatballs are ideal for meal prepping, allowing you to save time and effort during the week. After baking, you can easily store them in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage. Just place the meatballs in an airtight container or a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Incorporating these meatballs into your weekly meal plan can simplify your cooking routine. You can toss them into soups, serve them with rice or couscous, or even add them to a hearty stew. Their versatility means you can create a variety of meals with just one batch, making it an excellent strategy for busy families or individuals. With a little planning, you can enjoy homemade meals that are both delicious and nutritious all week long.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your meatballs:
Ground Beef Meatballs Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make delicious ground beef meatballs:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Form the 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 minutes or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
Once cooked, serve your meatballs with your favorite sauce or as is!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your ground beef meatballs, the possibilities are endless. For a classic Italian meal, serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, for a fun twist, try placing them in a toasted sub roll with melted provolone or mozzarella for a delightful meatball sub. You can also skewer them on toothpicks for a quick and easy appetizer that's sure to be a hit at parties.
For a lighter option, consider pairing your meatballs with a fresh salad. A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the meatballs beautifully. You can also serve them alongside roasted or steamed vegetables for a complete, wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Storage Tips
To ensure the freshness of your ground beef meatballs, proper storage is essential. If you plan to eat them within a few days, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain good for up to four days. For longer storage, freezing is your best option. Make sure to let the meatballs cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent freezer burn and maintains their flavor and texture.
When reheating frozen meatballs, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before warming them up in the oven or microwave. This will help them heat evenly and retain moisture. For an extra touch, consider simmering them in sauce while reheating to enhance their flavor and juiciness.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize these meatballs to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mixture. If you're looking to add more vegetables, finely grated zucchini or carrots can be mixed in without compromising the texture. For a gluten-free option, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or ground oats.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles. Fresh basil, oregano, or even a touch of cumin can elevate the taste of your meatballs, giving them an exciting twist. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to make it your own, ensuring that every batch is a delightful experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.
→ How do I store leftover meatballs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze meatballs?
Yes, meatballs can be frozen before or after cooking. Just make sure they're cooled completely before freezing.
→ What can I serve with meatballs?
Meatballs are great with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or served with a side salad.
Ground Beef Meatballs
These delicious ground beef meatballs are perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as a tasty appetizer. Juicy and flavorful, they're sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Created by: Evelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
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 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
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