There is nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as sinking your teeth into juicy, tender meatballs bursting with flavor. This Easy Baked Meatballs with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe is a game changer for anyone looking to whip up a crowd-pleasing dish without fuss. Packed with freshly grated parmesan and vibrant herbs, these meatballs bake to perfection with a golden crust and a melt-in-your-mouth interior. They’re ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your absolute favorites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and aroma. From the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs that keep the meatballs tender to the fresh parsley that lifts the flavors, each element plays a crucial part in making these meatballs unforgettable.
- Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: Adds moisture and a herby backdrop that keeps meatballs soft yet structured.
- Milk (whole recommended): Softens breadcrumbs for a buttery texture inside the meatballs.
- Ground beef: Provides a rich and hearty base for deep flavor.
- Ground pork: Adds juiciness and a touch of sweetness to balance the beef.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything beautifully together without crumbling.
- Minced garlic cloves: Infuses the meatballs with bold, savory notes that build complexity.
- Onion powder: Offers subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and helps with seasoning consistency.
- Pepper: Adds a mild kick that complements the herbs perfectly.
- Fresh parsley (finely chopped): Brings a fresh, vibrant green color and bright herbal flair.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Delivers a nutty, savory richness that elevates every bite.
How to Make Easy Baked Meatballs with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
Start by combining the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and milk in a large mixing bowl. Mix them until they form a sticky, paste-like consistency — this step is key for keeping your meatballs moist and tender as they bake. Letting the breadcrumbs soak up the milk ensures each bite is wonderfully juicy.
Step 2: Add the Meat and Seasonings
Next, add the ground beef, ground pork, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, fresh parsley, and Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands to gently but thoroughly combine everything. Be careful not to overwork the meat — a delicate touch makes the meatballs light rather than dense.
Step 3: Shape Your Meatballs
Form the mixture into meatballs about 1 ¼ to 1 ½ inches in diameter. Using roughly 2 ½ tablespoons of mixture per ball helps you yield approximately 25 to 30 perfectly sized meatballs. Placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet ensures easy cleanup and even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position your oven rack in the middle for a single baking sheet; if you’re using two, place one on the top rack and one on the bottom, swapping their places halfway through baking. Bake for 20 minutes, checking early if your meatballs are smaller. They should be cooked through and develop a lovely golden crust on the outside.
Step 5: Optional Frying Technique
If you prefer an extra crispy exterior, sear the meatballs in olive oil over medium-high heat in batches until browned on all sides. Keep in mind these should be finished cooking in sauce or in the oven for safety. This method gives a lovely texture contrast if you have a little extra time.
How to Serve Easy Baked Meatballs with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of more grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a fresh and cheesy finish that’s irresistible. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the visual and flavor appeal for serving right from the oven.
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti or any pasta of your choice, creating a classic comfort meal. For lighter sides, consider garlic roasted veggies, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad that balances out the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform these meatballs into party-ready sliders by placing them in mini buns with mozzarella and marinara. Or skewer them with colorful veggies for crowd-pleasing appetizers perfect for gatherings. The versatility of the Easy Baked Meatballs with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe will truly delight any palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay deliciously fresh for up to 4 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week.
Freezing
Baked meatballs freeze exceptionally well. Place cooled meatballs in small freezer bags — 4 to 5 per bag works great — then store several bags in a larger container to avoid freezer burn. This method means you’ll always have a ready-to-go tasty protein on hand.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals covered loosely with a damp paper towel. For crispy reheating, pop them back in a hot oven for 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use all beef or all pork instead of a mix?
Absolutely! Using all ground beef or all ground pork will still yield tasty meatballs. Mixing both just balances the flavor and texture for the best juicy result, but feel free to tailor it to your preference or what you have on hand.
Do I have to use Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan cheese adds a wonderful nutty depth, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even a mild cheddar. The flavor may differ slightly, but the cheese plays a big role in enhancing taste and binding the meatballs.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure they are seasoned so your meatballs retain their full flavor profile.
What’s the best way to avoid dry meatballs?
Don’t over-mix the meat mixture and don’t pack the meatballs too tightly. Using a combination of beef and pork, along with milk-soaked breadcrumbs and Parmesan, helps keep them moist. Also, baking at the right temperature with proper timing ensures juiciness.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! While parsley and garlic are classic, feel free to add basil, oregano, or even a pinch of red chili flakes for some heat. This recipe is very adaptable to your favorite flavor combinations.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Easy Baked Meatballs with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe enough if you want an effortlessly impressive dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. These meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and versatile enough to become a staple in your kitchen rotation. Once you’ve tried them, you’ll find yourself turning back to this recipe time and time again to satisfy those comforting food cravings. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious meatballs!
Print
Easy Baked Meatballs with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 25-30 meatballs (serves 6)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This easy meatball recipe combines classic Italian flavors with a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese, resulting in juicy, tender meatballs that can be baked or pan-fried for a delicious homemade meal. Perfect for quick dinners and great for freezing leftovers.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 large egg
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup packed fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture. In a fairly large mixing bowl, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and whole milk. Mix or mash together until the mixture forms a paste, ensuring the breadcrumbs are fully moistened.
- Mix in remaining ingredients and form meatballs. Add the ground beef, ground pork, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb paste. Using your hands, gently mix everything until just combined. Form the mixture into 1 ¼ to 1 ½-inch meatballs, approximately using 2 ½ tablespoons of meat per meatball, making about 25 to 30 meatballs total. Handle delicately without over-mixing or packing tightly to keep the meatballs tender.
- Arrange meatballs on baking sheets. Place the meatballs on parchment paper- or foil-lined baking sheets to simplify cleanup. If using only one baking sheet, position the oven rack in the middle. For two baking sheets, prepare to place one rack top and the other bottom, rotating them halfway through baking for even cooking.
- Cook the meatballs. For baking: preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes or until cooked through. Adjust cooking time based on meatball size, and check earlier if making smaller meatballs to avoid overcooking. For frying: heat 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning with tongs, until all sides are evenly browned (about 5–7 minutes per batch). If needed, add more oil for the second batch. Finish cooking by simmering the browned meatballs in sauce or by transferring the skillet to the oven until fully cooked (meatballs should never be eaten partially cooked).
- Store or serve. Once baked, let the meatballs cool. Portion 4–5 meatballs into small freezer bags like Ziploc or sandwich bags, then place those bags into a larger airtight container or Tupperware for freezing. Enjoy fresh or frozen meatballs as desired.
Notes
- For best texture, do not overmix the meatball mixture; overworking will make them tough.
- Choosing a combination of ground beef and pork balances flavor and moisture.
- Ensure meatballs are cooked through before serving to food safety standards.
- Partially cooked fried meatballs must be finished in sauce or the oven to ensure safety.
- Freezing meatballs in small portions makes reheating convenient.
