There’s something magical about the aroma of Baked Meatballs wafting through your home, isn’t there? Picture it: juicy, seasoned morsels of meat, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They sizzle in the oven while you contemplate whether to serve them with spaghetti or just devour them straight off the baking tray. Let’s face it; when it comes to comfort food, meatballs reign supreme!
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Baked Meatballs
- How to Make Baked Meatballs
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients are needed for baked meatballs?
- How long should I bake meatballs?
- Can I freeze baked meatballs?
- What sauces pair well with baked meatballs?
- Conclusion for Baked Meatballs:
- 📖 Recipe Card
I still remember that fateful day at my grandmother’s house when I first tasted her famous Baked Meatballs. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and the smell of garlic and herbs filled her tiny kitchen. As a kid, I would hover around her like a hawk, waiting for those savory gems to come out of the oven. Now, every time I whip up a batch, I’m transported back to that cozy kitchen full of laughter—and yes, a few food fights over who got the last meatball.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Baked Meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- The flavor is nothing short of heavenly with rich spices and a perfect blend of ingredients.
- Their golden-brown appearance will have everyone eager to dig in right away.
- You can serve them over pasta or as appetizers at your next party—versatile goodness at its finest!
Ingredients for Baked Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious soup recipes.
- Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for juicy meatballs; leaner beef can lead to dryness.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs together while adding flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds an extra depth of flavor that elevates these meatballs from good to great.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings freshness and color; you can also use dried parsley in a pinch.
- Egg: One egg helps hold everything together without making the mixture too wet.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for that savory kick; fresh minced garlic works well too!
For the Sauce:
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or make homemade for an extra touch of love.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large mixing bowl and let’s get our hands dirty!
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In that bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy—use your hands to mix until everything is well combined but not overworked.
Step 3: Shape Your Meatballs
Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Now roll the mixture into balls about one inch in diameter—think golf ball size but less intimidating.
Step 4: Bake Those Bad Boys
Place your meatballs on the baking sheet with space between each one. Pop them in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Heat Your Sauce
While those beauties are baking away, heat up your marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat so it’s nice and warm when you serve.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Once baked, transfer those tasty meatballs onto plates or into a serving dish. Drizzle with marinara sauce for that final touch before diving in!
Now go ahead and relish every bite of these delightful Baked Meatballs! Whether you’re sharing them at dinner or snacking on them alone (we don’t judge), they’re sure to steal the show!
You Must Know
- Baked meatballs are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them a weeknight dinner hero.
- You can customize the flavors to suit your taste buds, and they freeze beautifully for later.
- Perfect for pasta or simply enjoyed with a dipping sauce.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve mouthwatering baked meatballs, start by preheating your oven while mixing the ingredients. Form the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, then finish with your favorite sauce for that extra touch of flavor. For more inspiration, check out this homemade Big Mac sauce recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken in your baked meatballs. Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist. Optional cheese inside makes them even more delightful! For more inspiration, check out this Greek chicken meatballs recipe recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave them if you’re feeling impatient.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender baked meatballs, don’t overmix the ingredients; it makes them tough.
- Use a cookie scoop for even sizes and uniform cooking.
- Let them rest after baking to retain moisture and flavor.
The first time I made baked meatballs was for a family gathering. The rave reviews from my relatives made me feel like a culinary superstar! Who knew such simple ingredients could bring everyone together?
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for baked meatballs?
To prepare delicious baked meatballs, you will need ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and an egg. Additionally, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for enhanced flavor. buttery garlic bread rolls You can also personalize your meatballs by adding diced onions or bell peppers. The key to juicy baked meatballs lies in the right combination of ingredients that bind well together while retaining moisture during cooking.
How long should I bake meatballs?
Baked meatballs typically require about 25 to 30 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Ensure they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). For best results, use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Baking times may vary slightly based on the size of the meatballs. Smaller ones may cook faster while larger ones might take a bit longer, so keep an eye on them for perfect results.
Can I freeze baked meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze baked meatballs! After baking, allow them to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag before storing in the freezer. They can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This makes baked meatballs a convenient option for meal prep!
What sauces pair well with baked meatballs?
Baked meatballs pair wonderfully with various sauces. Classic marinara sauce is a favorite choice for serving over spaghetti. For something different, try sweet and sour sauce or barbecue sauce for a unique twist. You can also serve them with a creamy Alfredo sauce or even a tangy teriyaki glaze. The versatility of baked meatballs means they can complement many types of cuisine seamlessly!
Conclusion for Baked Meatballs:
In summary, baked meatballs offer a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. With simple ingredients such as ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, you can create a tasty meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. vegetable-packed broccoli balls Remember to bake them until fully cooked and consider pairing them with your favorite sauces for added flavor. Enjoy this comforting dish that is sure to please family and friends alike!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Baked Meatballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Baked Meatballs are a comforting classic that brings together juicy ground beef and aromatic spices for a mouthwatering dish. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these meatballs are perfect for spaghetti dinners or as crowd-pleasing appetizers. Infused with rich Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, each bite delivers a nostalgic taste of home-cooked goodness. Serve with marinara sauce for an unforgettable meal that’s sure to have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- While baking, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Serve meatballs drizzled with marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (130g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
