The Best Ground Beef Meatballs Recipe

One of the first things I learned how to cook from scratch was meatballs. I wanted something simple but packed with flavor, and I knew homemade would be better than anything frozen from the store. I tried different combinations of ingredients, adjusting the seasonings and breadcrumbs until I got it just right.

Now, these homemade ground beef meatballs are a favorite in my house. They’re juicy, full of flavor, and perfect for so many meals—whether served with spaghetti, in a sub, or as a party appetizer. The best part? They come together quickly and can be made ahead of time!

Servings	Total
4	30mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first made meatballs from a basic recipe in an old cookbook, but I tweaked it over time to make them even better. After a lot of trial and error, I finally figured out the perfect mix of ingredients to get tender, flavorful meatballs every time.

Why Ground Beef Meatballs

Meatballs are a classic for a reason. They’re easy to make, versatile, and great for meal prepping. You can serve them with pasta, in sandwiches, or on their own with a dipping sauce. Plus, they freeze well, so you can always have a batch ready for a quick dinner.

What Is Ground Beef Meatballs Made Of?

This dish is made with simple, everyday ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg (for binding)
• Onion and garlic
• Parmesan cheese (adds richness)
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian herbs)

What to Have with Ground Beef Meatballs

Meatballs can be served in many ways, including:

• Spaghetti – A classic combination.
• Meatball subs – Served on a toasted bun with marinara and cheese.
• Mashed potatoes – A hearty, comforting side.
• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Roasted vegetables – A lighter, balanced option.

Is Ground Beef Meatballs Healthy?

Meatballs can be part of a balanced meal. Using lean ground beef and baking instead of frying makes them lighter. You can also add grated vegetables, like zucchini or carrots, for extra nutrients.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for extra tenderness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and milk (if using).
   • Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form the Meatballs:
   • Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
   • Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing the meatballs evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
   • Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
5. Serve:
   • Enjoy with your favorite sauce and side dishes!

Tips

• Don’t overmix the meat—this can make the meatballs tough.
• Use a cookie scoop to make sure the meatballs are the same size.
• Freeze uncooked meatballs for an easy meal later—just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well, but you may need to add extra breadcrumbs to keep the texture firm.

2. Can I fry the meatballs instead of baking them?
Yes, you can pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat until browned and cooked through.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Ground beef meatballs are an easy, delicious, and versatile meal that you can whip up in no time. Whether you serve them with pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, they’re always a hit. Try this simple recipe, and enjoy homemade meatballs that taste way better than anything store-bought!

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