Why Make This Recipe
Baked ground beef meatballs are a delicious and easy meal that you can quickly prepare for the whole family. They are versatile, tasty, and can be served in many ways—from pasta to sandwiches or even as snacks. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a hearty dish without too much fuss.
How to Make Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional for serving)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Serve with marinara sauce if desired.
How to Serve Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
You can serve these meatballs in many ways. One option is to toss them in marinara sauce and serve them over cooked spaghetti for a classic Italian meal. They can also be placed in a sub roll for a delicious meatball sandwich. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving them as appetizers with toothpicks and dipping sauces.
How to Store Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
If you have leftovers, storing meatballs is easy. Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze cooked meatballs. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container, where they can last up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat them, simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat.
Tips to Make Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
- Make sure not to overmix the beef mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or swap it with ground turkey for a lighter meal.
- If you want extra flavor, consider adding some chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
Variation
You can easily adjust the recipe to your taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a cheesy version, mix in some shredded mozzarella cheese. You can also substitute the breadcrumbs with ground oats for a gluten-free option.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Just make sure to completely thaw it before mixing.
How long should I cook the meatballs?
Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can form the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Alternatively, you can bake them and then store them for later use.
Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Serve with marinara sauce if desired.