The Ultimate Meatball Recipe
There’s something truly comforting about a plate of homemade meatballs. Whether served over spaghetti, stuffed into a sub sandwich, or enjoyed on their own with a side of garlic bread, these juicy, tender meatballs are packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make.
This classic meatball recipe is perfect for any occasion! The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Plus, these meatballs can be baked or pan-fried, making them a versatile and foolproof recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra juiciness)
- 50g breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying, if pan-frying)
For the Sauce (Optional):
- 500g canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, diced onion, milk, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch (4 cm) meatballs and place them on a plate. You should get about 16-20 meatballs, depending on the size.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Option 1: Bake the Meatballs
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
Option 2: Pan-Fry the Meatballs
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully until all sides are browned and meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature of 75°C/165°F).
- Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 3: Make the Sauce (Optional)
- In the same skillet (or a new pan), heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked meatballs into the sauce and let them simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve the meatballs with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings, About 4-5 Meatballs Each)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fats: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Meatballs
✨ Use a mix of meats – A blend of ground beef and pork makes the juiciest meatballs with the best flavor.
✨ Don’t overmix – Overworking the meat mixture can make your meatballs dense instead of tender.
✨ Make uniform sizes – Rolling the meatballs evenly ensures they all cook at the same rate.
✨ Chill before cooking – Letting the meatballs sit in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape.
✨ Try different seasonings – For Italian-style meatballs, add more oregano and basil. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes.
✨ Freeze for later – These meatballs freeze beautifully! Just place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to make – Simple ingredients come together in under 30 minutes.
✔ Juicy and flavorful – Perfect seasoning and texture in every bite.
✔ Versatile – Serve them over pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer.
✔ Meal prep-friendly – Make extra and freeze for quick meals.
✔ Kid-approved – A family favorite that even picky eaters will love!
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