Juicy Homemade Baked Meatballs Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners

Savory baked meatballs burst with incredible flavor that will make your dinner table come alive.

Juicy and tender, these little protein-packed gems combine classic ingredients in surprising ways.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this comfort food classic across cultures.

Mediterranean and Italian culinary traditions inspire these delectable rounds of pure deliciousness.

Minimal effort delivers maximum satisfaction when you blend ground meats with fresh herbs and spices.

Seasoned breadcrumbs and a secret ingredient create an irresistible texture that melts in your mouth.

Warm aromas will fill your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table with anticipation.

You won’t be able to resist trying this mouthwatering recipe that promises to become a new family favorite.

What Makes These Baked Meatballs a Family Go-To

• Packed with classic flavors and tender texture, these meatballs will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
• Serve over pasta, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer, these meatballs adapt to any meal occasion or dining style.
• Skip the traditional frying and enjoy a lighter version of this classic dish by baking until perfectly golden and juicy.

Ingredients List for Flavorful Baked Meatballs

• Ground Beef: A classic protein that provides rich, hearty flavor for the meatballs.

• Breadcrumbs, Egg: These ingredients help hold the meatballs together and create a tender texture.

• Parmesan Cheese, Parsley, Garlic, Salt, Pepper: These ingredients add depth, freshness, and seasoning to the meatballs.

• Crushed Tomatoes, Oregano, Salt, Pepper: A simple sauce that complements the savory meatballs with classic Italian flavors.

Easy Steps to Juicy, Tasty Baked Meatballs

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 400F (200C).

This high heat will help create those crispy, golden-brown exteriors we all love.

Step 2: Mix Magic Meatball Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Egg
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper

Gently fold and mix everything together, being careful not to overwork the meat.

A light touch keeps the meatballs tender and juicy.

Step 3: Shape Perfect Morsels

Roll the meat mixture into golf ball-sized spheres with your hands.

Place each meatball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Let the meatballs roast for 20-25 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and are cooked through.

Step 5: Craft a Quick Tomato Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, simmer crushed tomatoes in a pot.

Sprinkle in oregano, salt, and pepper to create a simple yet delicious sauce that will make these meatballs sing.

Step 6: Marry Meatballs and Sauce

Once the meatballs are done, gently nestle them into the warm tomato sauce.

Coat them lovingly, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Serve hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight!

Pro Tips for Making the Best Baked Meatballs

• Handle the ground beef gently to prevent tough meatballs, using a light touch when combining ingredients.
• Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to create uniform meatballs that cook evenly and look professional.
• Add a splash of milk or beef broth to the meat mixture to keep meatballs incredibly juicy and tender.
• Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version that's equally delicious.
• Experiment with herbs like fresh basil or thyme to elevate the meatballs' taste profile and add complexity.

Smart Storage and Reheating for Baked Meatballs

• Transfer cooled meatballs to an airtight container, seal tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Separate meatballs from sauce to maintain their crispy texture.
• Place meatballs in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing excess air. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months. Freeze with or without sauce for flexible meal prep.
• Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until thoroughly warmed. Stir between intervals to ensure even heating.
• Spread meatballs on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This method helps restore their original juicy texture and crispy exterior.

Pairing Suggestions for a Hearty Meatball Meal

• Elevate Savory Meatball Pairings
• Serve Alongside Creamy Polenta: Soft, buttery polenta creates a luxurious base that catches the meatball sauce perfectly, offering a smooth contrast to the robust meat texture.
• Match with Bold Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied Chianti or Sangiovese that complements the rich tomato sauce and cuts through the meatballs' hearty flavor profile.
• Create Italian-Style Salad Companion: Prepare a crisp arugula salad with shaved Parmesan, lemon vinaigrette, and toasted pine nuts to provide a fresh, zesty counterpoint to the warm, savory meatballs.
• Garnish with Fresh Herb Finish: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley on top to brighten the dish and add a layer of fresh, aromatic complexity that enhances the overall dining experience.

Baked Meatballs: Flavor Variations to Try Next

• Gluten-Free Meatballs: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same tender texture.
• Lean Protein Option: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content while keeping the meatballs juicy and flavorful.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Create plant-based meatballs using lentils, mushrooms, and quinoa as a protein-rich alternative that mimics traditional meatball texture.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Skip breadcrumbs entirely and use grated zucchini or crushed pork rinds as a binding agent for a keto-friendly approach.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of meats for variety and different flavor profiles.

• How do I prevent meatballs from becoming dry?

Don’t overmix the ingredients and avoid overcooking. Use a meat mixture with some fat content and check internal temperature around 160F to maintain moisture.

• Is it okay to freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! These meatballs freeze excellently. After cooling completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before reheating.

• Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to maintain the recipe’s integrity.

Baked Meatballs Recipe

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4.5 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Swedish Meatballs dance with creamy gravy, delivering comfort straight from Nordic kitchens. Rich beef and pork blend create irresistible bites that transport taste buds to Stockholm’s charming culinary landscape.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 lb (454 grams) ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 large egg

Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) plain breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Fresh Herbs and Aromatics:

• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) chopped fresh parsley
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 28 ounces (794 grams) can crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 400F (200C), ensuring a perfect cooking environment for the meatballs.
2. In a spacious mixing vessel, delicately blend ground beef with breadcrumbs, introducing Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Fold ingredients gently to maintain meat’s tenderness.
3. Craft uniform spherical meatballs, roughly the size of golf balls, using light hands to prevent compressing the mixture too tightly.
4. Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving slight spacing between each to promote even heat circulation.
5. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing meatballs to roast for 20-25 minutes until they develop a golden-brown exterior and reach an internal temperature of 160F.
6. Simultaneously, prepare a vibrant tomato sauce by simmering crushed tomatoes with dried oregano, seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance flavor profile.
7. Once meatballs complete cooking, carefully transfer them into the warm sauce, gently coating each piece to infuse additional moisture and taste.
8. Serve immediately, presenting a succulent dish that promises to delight family and guests alike.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option that keeps the meatballs juicy and light.
• Add finely grated zucchini or carrots into the meat mixture to boost nutrition and create extra moisture for tender meatballs.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almond flour to make the recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Let meatballs rest for 5 minutes after baking to help them retain their shape and prevent crumbling when serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg