The Best Ground Beef Meatballs
These ground beef meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make with simple pantry ingredients. They’re perfect for serving over pasta, in sandwiches, or as a meal prep staple for busy weeknights.
If you love easy ground beef dinners like this, try this Easy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Why You'll Love These Ground Beef Meatballs
- Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor
- Made with simple, everyday ingredients
- Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or meal prep
- Freezer-friendly and make-ahead friendly
- Great for family dinners or entertaining
For another comforting meal, try this Homemade Hamburger Helper
Ingredients for Ground Beef Meatballs
This recipe uses simple ingredients that create tender and flavorful meatballs.
- Ground Beef (1 lb). The base of the recipe, providing rich flavor and texture. For another hearty beef dish, try this Shepherd’s Pie
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup). Helps bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
- Egg (1). Adds structure and moisture.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup). Adds savory, cheesy flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced). Enhances flavor.
- Onion (¼ cup, finely diced). Adds moisture and depth.
- Milk (¼ cup). Keeps the meatballs soft and tender.
- Parsley (2 tbsp). Adds freshness.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste). Balances flavors.
How to Make Ground Beef Meatballs
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet.Mix ingredients
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan, garlic, onion, milk, and seasonings. Mix until just combined.Shape the meatballs
Form into evenly sized balls and place on the baking sheet.Bake
Bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through and browned.Serve
Serve with pasta, marinara sauce, or your favorite sides.
Pair these meatballs with this Perfect Homemade Marinara Sauce
For more baked dinner ideas, browse these oven baked recipes.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Meatballs
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture
- Use milk-soaked breadcrumbs for tenderness
- Keep meatballs uniform in size
- Bake instead of frying for easier cleanup
- Let meatballs rest before serving
For another cozy beef recipe, try this Ground Beef and Tater Tot Casserole.
I highly recommend using Caraway Home non-toxic bakeware—use code STACIE at checkout for a special discount!
The Best Ground Beef Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lbs ground beef 80/20 perferred
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp crushed sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or almond flour
- ¼ cup parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll into evenly sized meatballs.
- Place on baking sheet spaced apart.
- Bake 18–22 minutes (until internal temp reaches 160°F).
- Sprinkle with additional sea salt immediately after removing from oven.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
🥩 Nutritional Value (With Egg + Breadcrumbs)
Per Serving (4 Meatballs)
- Calories: 355
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: ~540mg
🥩 Per Individual Meatball
- Calories: 89
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 6.5g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for meatballs?
Yes, ground beef meatballs can be made with ground turkey instead of beef. Ground turkey is leaner, so the meatballs may be slightly less juicy. Add an extra tablespoon of milk or a little olive oil to keep the texture moist and tender.
How long do ground beef meatballs last in the fridge?
Ground beef meatballs last in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Let the ground beef meatballs cool completely before storing. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze ground beef meatballs?
Yes, ground beef meatballs freeze well for up to 3 months. Allow the ground beef meatballs to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 20–25 minutes or until heated through.
Can I make ground beef meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, ground beef meatballs can be prepared ahead and stored uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them raw or cooked for later use. Bake directly from chilled at 400°F for 18–22 minutes.
Can I make ground beef meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, ground beef meatballs can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Make sure to check labels on packaged ingredients.
Why are my ground beef meatballs dry?
Ground beef meatballs turn out dry when there isn’t enough moisture or the meat is overcooked. Adding milk and breadcrumbs helps retain moisture. Bake just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to prevent drying out.
Can I cook ground beef meatballs without an oven?
Yes, ground beef meatballs can be cooked on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. You can also simmer them directly in sauce for extra flavor.
What should I serve with ground beef meatballs?
Ground beef meatballs are commonly served with pasta, rice, or in sandwiches. They pair well with marinara sauce, mashed potatoes, or vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
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