Oven-Baked Meatballs: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef, pork, and veal)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce (Optional):

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup water or broth (to thin the sauce, if needed)

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.

Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined (avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender).

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Scoop out portions of the mixture (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and roll them into 1.5-inch meatballs. You should get about 20-24 meatballs.
Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Simmer in Sauce (Optional)

If using sauce, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the baked meatballs and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are coated and heated through. Add water or broth if the sauce is too thick.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the meatballs with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer with toothpicks and dipping sauce.
Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Variations

Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Spicy Meatballs: Add 1/2 tsp red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture.
Cheesy Meatballs: Add 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the mixture for extra cheesiness.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Cooking Notes

For even cooking, try to make the meatballs the same size.
If the mixture is too sticky, wet your hands with water or oil before shaping the meatballs.
For a richer flavor, toast the breadcrumbs lightly before adding them to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal.
Use in meatball subs with melted cheese and marinara sauce.
Pair with mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting dinner.
Serve as an appetizer with marinara, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard for dipping.

Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop.
To freeze, place uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Baking Time:

18-20 minutes

Total Time:

About 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per meatball, makes 20-24):

Calories: 70
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground pork, turkey, chicken, or a mix of meats.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and shape the meatballs ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Try crushed crackers, panko, or rolled oats as a substitute.
Can I cook these in sauce instead of baking?
Yes, you can simmer raw meatballs directly in sauce for 20-25 minutes until cooked through. However, baking them first ensures they hold their shape better.

Conclusion

Oven-Baked Meatballs are a simple, versatile, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main course, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this easy and flavorful recipe!