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Easy Baked Meatballs Recipe

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3.9 from 2 reviews

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.

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.