Ground Beef Meatballs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously seasoned ground beef meatballs, perfect for pasta or as appetizers.

Evelyn Parker

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:33:41.206Z

Ground beef meatballs are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. These flavorful meatballs are easy to prepare and can be served in various ways, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Juicy and tender meatballs that are bursting with flavor
  • Versatile dish that pairs well with spaghetti, subs, or on their own
  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Perfectly Seasoned Flavors

Ground beef meatballs are a culinary delight that brings together a symphony of flavors in every bite. The combination of fresh herbs, minced garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese infuses the meatballs with a depth of taste that elevates a simple dish into something special. Each ingredient plays a vital role, ensuring that the meatballs are not only flavorful but also incredibly juicy.

When seasoned properly, ground beef meatballs become a versatile canvas for a variety of sauces and side dishes. Whether you're serving them with spaghetti and marinara or as standalone appetizers, their robust flavor profile pairs beautifully with different cuisines and ingredients. You can easily switch up the seasonings to match your personal taste or the theme of your meal.

A Family Favorite

These ground beef meatballs are not just a meal; they're an experience that brings families together. The simple act of making meatballs can become a fun activity, allowing everyone to get involved in the kitchen. From mixing the ingredients to shaping the meatballs, it's a great way to bond and create lasting memories while preparing a delicious dish.

Moreover, meatballs are perfect for meal prep. You can easily batch-cook them and store them in the fridge or freezer, ready for quick meals on busy weeknights. Just reheat and serve, and you have a wholesome meal that your family will love, making them a staple in any household.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of ground beef meatballs is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to accommodate different dietary preferences or spice levels. For example, try using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a healthier option. You can also experiment with various herbs and spices to create unique flavor combinations that cater to your family's tastes.

Additionally, consider incorporating vegetables into the meatball mixture, such as finely grated zucchini or chopped bell peppers, to add extra nutrition. This not only enhances the texture but also increases the veggie content of your meal, making it a win-win for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful meatballs:

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 egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for serving)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready to go for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious meatballs:

Preheat and Mix

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

Serve

Once cooked, serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta or as an appetizer. Enjoy!

Don’t forget to enjoy your delicious meatballs with your favorite sauce!

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs shine when served over a bed of spaghetti with a generous helping of marinara sauce. The rich sauce complements the hearty meatballs perfectly, creating a satisfying meal that's sure to please everyone at the table. For a lighter option, consider serving them with zucchini noodles or a fresh salad.

If you're hosting a gathering, meatballs make excellent appetizers. Serve them with toothpicks and a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha glaze. This allows your guests to enjoy the meatballs in a fun and interactive way, making them a hit at any party.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover meatballs, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When freezing, it's best to layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal later.

When you're ready to enjoy your meatballs again, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also warm them up in the microwave for a quick meal, but for the best texture, the oven is recommended. Enjoy the delightful flavors all over again!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze meatballs?

Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with meatballs?

Meatballs are great with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or served on their own with dipping sauce.

Ground Beef Meatballs

Deliciously seasoned ground beef meatballs, perfect for pasta or as appetizers.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Evelyn Parker

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

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 clove garlic, minced
  6. 1 egg
  7. 1 tsp salt
  8. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  9. 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  10. 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for serving)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

Step 02

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 03

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

Step 04

Once cooked, serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta or as an appetizer. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 22g