Why Make This Recipe
Baked Ground Beef Meatballs are a delicious and easy dish that you can serve for any occasion. They are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep. Plus, they are a great way to use ground beef and can be paired with various sauces and sides.
How to Make Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
Making Baked Ground Beef Meatballs is simple and quick. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional for serving)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
- Serve with marinara sauce if desired.
How to Serve Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
You can serve Baked Ground Beef Meatballs in many ways. They are excellent on their own or with marinara sauce over pasta. You can also add them to a sub sandwich for a tasty meatball sandwich. They pair well with side dishes like garlic bread, salads, or vegetables, making them versatile for any meal.
How to Store Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
To store Baked Ground Beef Meatballs, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven or heat them in the microwave until warm.
Tips to Make Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
- Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Use a scoop or your hands to keep the meatballs uniform in size for even cooking.
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of milk or some grated cheese.
Variation
You can easily modify the Baked Ground Beef Meatballs by changing up the seasonings. Try adding different herbs like basil or oregano. You can also mix in some grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or even chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.
Can I bake the meatballs in a sauce?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs in marinara sauce. Just pour the sauce in a baking dish and place the meatballs on top before baking.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just bake them when you are ready to eat.
Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for better flavor
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Can use plain or flavored breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley Fresh parsley gives a better taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg Acts as a binder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce Optional for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and browned on the outside.