If you have been searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both simple and satisfying, this Basic Baked Meatball Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a timeless crowd-pleaser that combines juicy ground beef with fragrant herbs and a touch of Parmesan, baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re making dinner for family or prepping a cozy meal for yourself, these meatballs come together quickly and deliver flavor that feels like a warm, delicious hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in building the perfect texture and flavor that make this Basic Baked Meatball Recipe unforgettable. From the savory beef to the fresh parsley, everything works in harmony.
- 1 pound ground beef: The juicy base that provides rich flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps hold the meatballs together while adding a light, tender bite.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle, nutty depth that elevates the taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch to brighten every bite.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Offers moisture and a gentle sweetness.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meat mixture cohesive and tender.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds fresh herbal notes and a pop of green color.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the savory flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses classic Italian flavor.
- 1/4 cup milk: Moistens the mixture, keeping your meatballs tender and juicy.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps create a beautiful golden crust during baking.
How to Make Basic Baked Meatball Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures your meatballs bake quickly, developing a crispy, golden exterior while staying moist inside. It’s the perfect environment for that delicious crust.
Step 2: Combine the Ground Beef and Flavorings
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and finely chopped onion. Each ingredient combines to create the base flavor and texture of your meatballs, making every mouthful rich and delightful.
Step 3: Add Egg, Parsley, and Seasonings
Next, introduce the egg, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. These components give your meatballs structure, vibrant herbaceous notes, and that authentic Italian-inspired flavor that everyone loves.
Step 4: Mix in Milk for Moisture
Pour in the milk and mix everything thoroughly. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, fold the mixture until it is evenly incorporated. The milk ensures the meatballs won’t dry out, keeping them tender with every bite.
Step 5: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Keep them uniform in size for even baking. Place each on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 6: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Lightly drizzle the olive oil over the meatballs. This simple step encourages a lovely browning effect in the oven, adding a slightly crisp exterior that contrasts with the juicy interior perfectly.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Cooked Through
Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. The meatballs will turn golden brown on the outside and be cooked to tender perfection inside. It’s such a rewarding moment when you see them come out looking like little balls of comfort!
Step 8: Let Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes. This step helps seal in the juices, ensuring each bite stays moist and flavorful. It’s worth the brief wait before digging in!
How to Serve Basic Baked Meatball Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra grated Parmesan just before serving adds brightness and a touch of elegance. A light drizzle of your favorite marinara sauce can also complement the meatballs beautifully, bringing another layer of lush flavor.
Side Dishes
Basic Baked Meatball Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, al dente spaghetti soaked in marinara, or even a crisp green salad to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring a great color and texture contrast as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these meatballs as sliders with small buns and fresh basil leaves or pile them high atop a cheesy lasagna. You can also skewer a few with toothpicks for a perfect party appetizer, making the dish not just delicious but versatile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner option when reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet to flash freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they’ll keep for up to 3 months without sticking together.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave them covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the meatballs.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in this Basic Baked Meatball Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork all work wonderfully. Just know that leaner meats might require a little extra moisture or fat to keep the meatballs tender.
Is it necessary to add breadcrumbs?
Breadcrumbs act as a binder and help keep your meatballs light and tender. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time and bake them later?
Yes! Form the meatballs and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready. It’s a great way to prepare ahead for busy days.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with pecorino Romano or omit it altogether, though Parmesan does add that lovely savory depth. A small bit of extra seasoning can help compensate if you skip it.
How do I make sure my meatballs don’t dry out?
The key is not to overmix your meatball mixture and to bake at a high temperature so they cook quickly. The addition of milk and egg also locks in moisture, giving you juicy, tender meatballs every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a plate of perfectly baked meatballs, and this Basic Baked Meatball Recipe captures that feeling beautifully. It’s a simple, reliable recipe that feels like a warm embrace after a long day. I encourage you to try it out, experiment with your favorite herbs or sides, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine.
Print
Basic Baked Meatball Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: About 20 meatballs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Basic Baked Meatball recipe offers a simple and delicious way to prepare classic meatballs using ground beef, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings. Perfectly baked until golden brown, these meatballs are juicy and flavorful, making an ideal main or appetizer for any meal.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the meatballs evenly.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and finely chopped onion to form the base of your meatball mixture.
- Add Seasonings and Binder: Add the egg, chopped fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning to the bowl to season and help bind the mixture together.
- Incorporate Milk: Pour in the milk and use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly combine all ingredients until evenly blended and cohesive.
- Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch diameter meatballs and place them spaced out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick cooking.
- Add Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs to promote browning and help keep them moist as they bake.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and turn a nice golden brown on the outside.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
- Using fresh parsley enhances the flavor, but dried parsley can be substituted if fresh is unavailable.
- The breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and keep them tender; use plain or Italian seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your flavor preference.
- Ensure meatballs are spaced evenly on the baking sheet to cook uniformly.
- You can add more Italian seasoning or herbs like basil or oregano for additional flavor variations.
- These meatballs can be served with pasta, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer with dipping sauce.
