Easy Baked Meatballs Recipe

If you’re after a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together effortlessly, this Easy Baked Meatballs Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender meatballs baked to perfection deliver big flavor without fuss, making them a perfect weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option. With simple ingredients that combine to create a deliciously balanced taste and a tender texture, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to family favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these meatballs lies in the straightforward, essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the beef brings hearty richness, breadcrumbs keep the texture just right, parmesan adds a savory punch, and fresh herbs brighten everything up. Even the finely chopped onion and minced garlic contribute depth and warmth, making every bite truly satisfying.

• 1 pound 80% lean ground beef: The perfect balance of fat and meat for juicy, flavorful meatballs.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder, helping hold the meatballs together while keeping them tender.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Adds structure without drying out the meatballs.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Introduces a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the meat’s richness.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds moisture and savory sweetness to each bite.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Provides a warm, aromatic depth that awakens the palate.
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt: Essential for bringing out and balancing flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a subtle spicy kick without overpowering.
• 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh Italian flat leaf parsley (optional): Lends a fresh, herbaceous note for brightness and color.

How to Make Easy Baked Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Mix the ground beef, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Kosher salt, ground black pepper, and fresh parsley if using. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed without overworking the meat, which can make your meatballs dense.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Before shaping your meatballs, preheat your oven to 400°F. While waiting, line a baking sheet with foil, which helps with cleanup, and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This little prep step makes removing the meatballs easy and keeps them looking beautiful.

Step 3: Scoop and Shape Your Meatballs

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the meat mixture to form 1 1/2-inch meatballs. Be consistent in size so they cook evenly. Place each meatball gently onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them so the heat can circulate properly.

Step 4: Bake to Juicy Perfection

Bake the meatballs uncovered for 17 to 20 minutes. About halfway through cooking, turn them over to prevent browning on the bottom and help them brown evenly all around. The goal is tender, juicy meatballs cooked through with a gorgeous golden exterior.

Step 5: Optional Sauce Simmer

If you want to elevate these meatballs, simmer them in your favorite marinara sauce for about 10 minutes after baking. This adds a lovely moisture layer and infuses the meatballs with a rich tomato flavor, perfect for serving over pasta or in a sandwich.

How to Serve Easy Baked Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can bring your dish to the next level. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory boost. Chopped fresh basil or parsley add pops of color and a refreshing herbal note that complements the savory meat perfectly.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair beautifully with classic comfort sides like spaghetti or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter twist, try serving them with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or even inside warm pita bread for an easy meatball sandwich experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Turn this Easy Baked Meatballs Recipe into an appetizer by skewering the meatballs with mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes for a fun party platter. You could also layer meatballs in a baked casserole with sauce, pasta, and cheese for a hearty, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for leftovers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them ideal for quick lunches or dinners later in the week. Store them in an airtight container to preserve their moisture and flavor.

Freezing

These meatballs freeze wonderfully! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they won’t stick together and can be pulled out as needed for easy, grab-and-go meals.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results, ensuring they stay tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but be mindful that these meats can dry out more easily. To keep them juicy, consider adding a little extra moisture like grated zucchini or a splash of milk.

Do I need to add breadcrumbs?

Breadcrumbs are important because they help bind the meat mixture and keep the meatballs tender. If you’re gluten-free, you can swap them with gluten-free crumbs or even crushed crackers, but avoid leaving them out completely.

How can I make meatballs more flavorful?

Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley, add grated cheese such as parmesan, or mix in spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes. Also, using both beef and pork brings great flavor and moisture balance.

Is it necessary to flip the meatballs halfway through baking?

Turning the meatballs halfway helps them brown evenly and prevents the bottoms from overcooking or sticking, resulting in a more appealing texture and appearance.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and bake later?

Yes! You can shape the raw meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps streamline your cooking on busy days while still providing fresh, home-cooked flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a homemade meatball, and this Easy Baked Meatballs Recipe makes it so approachable that you’ll wonder why you ever bought frozen. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, it’s a recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again. Give it a try, and get ready to impress everyone at your table with juicy, flavorful meatballs baked to golden perfection!

Easy Baked Meatballs Recipe

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This easy meatball recipe combines ground beef with simple ingredients like breadcrumbs, parmesan, and garlic to create flavorful, tender meatballs baked to perfection. Ready in just 30 minutes, these versatile meatballs can be served on their own, simmered in marinara sauce, or paired with pasta for a classic meal.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 5 servings (about 20 meatballs)
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Meatball Ingredients

• 1 pound 80% lean ground beef (can substitute half with ground pork)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian flat leaf parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Kosher salt, ground black pepper, and chopped fresh parsley if using. Ensure the mixture is evenly combined but do not overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Form Meatballs: Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the meat mixture. Roll each portion into a 1 1/2-inch diameter ball and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs uncovered in the preheated oven for 17 to 20 minutes. Turn the meatballs halfway through baking to prevent the bottoms from browning too much and to ensure even cooking. Bake until the inside is no longer pink and they reach a safe internal temperature.
5. Optional Simmering: For a saucier option, simmer the baked meatballs in marinara sauce for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors and keep them moist.
6. Serve: Serve the meatballs hot on their own as an appetizer or over spaghetti noodles for a full meal. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Using a combination of ground beef and ground pork can enhance the flavor and juiciness of the meatballs.
• Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid tough meatballs.
• Turning the meatballs halfway through baking ensures even cooking and prevents burning on the bottom.
• Simmering meatballs in marinara sauce is optional but adds moisture and flavor.
• These meatballs can be frozen uncooked for later use; thaw before baking.