The Best Baked Meatballs Recipe

There's something magical about biting into a perfectly baked meatball – tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. These meatballs are a family favorite, loved for their simplicity and versatility. Whether served over a plate of spaghetti, tucked into a sandwich, or enjoyed as an appetizer, they’re always a hit.

this Recipe

This recipe was born out of my desire for an easy, mess-free way to make meatballs without the hassle of frying. Over the years, it has become my go-to, offering consistently delicious results every time. Ready to transform your next meal with the best baked meatballs ever? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Baked Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite way to make meatballs. These baked beauties are everything you want in a recipe: simple, quick, and irresistibly delicious.

First, they’re unbelievably easy to prepare. Forget standing over a hot stove – just mix, roll, and bake. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of perfectly cooked meatballs, golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside.

They’re also healthier than their fried counterparts. Baking eliminates the need for excess oil, making these meatballs a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

And let’s not forget the clean-up! With just one baking sheet, this recipe keeps your kitchen tidy and stress-free.

Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or planning a big family gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these meatballs lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one is chosen to create a perfect balance of taste and texture.

• Ground beef: Opt for an 80/20 mix for the best combination of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can be used, but be cautious of dryness.
• Breadcrumbs: These provide structure, keeping the meatballs from falling apart. Panko breadcrumbs add a lighter texture, while traditional breadcrumbs create a denser bite.
• Milk: Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk ensures your meatballs stay moist and tender. Whole milk works best, but you can substitute it with a dairy-free option if needed.
• Egg: Acting as a binder, the egg holds everything together. Use a large egg for the best results.
• Seasonings: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper adds depth to every bite. Feel free to adjust these to your taste.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan takes the flavor to the next level, giving the meatballs a slightly nutty and savory kick.

For this recipe, all you’ll need is a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and some parchment paper to ensure an easy release and minimal mess.

How To Make This Baked Meatballs Recipe

Making these baked meatballs is a straightforward process, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned pros. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for about 2 minutes to absorb the liquid. This step ensures your meatballs stay tender and juicy.

Next, add the ground beef, egg, seasonings, and Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture. Using your hands, gently mix everything together until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense, so be careful not to overwork the meat.

Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. If you want perfectly uniform meatballs, use a small ice cream scoop.

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they’re cooked through and lightly golden on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist and flavorful.

Storage Options

These meatballs are great for meal prep and store beautifully for later use.

• Refrigerator: Place cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat frozen meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, simmer them in sauce for a quicker option.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Ground pork also works well for a slightly richer flavor.
• Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
• Try mixing in grated zucchini or finely diced onion for added moisture and nutrients.
• Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Experiment with different cheeses – shredded mozzarella or Asiago are excellent alternatives to Parmesan.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

With this foolproof recipe, you’ll have perfectly baked meatballs ready to elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

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