Do you love meatballs? Me too! They're tasty, easy to make, and great for any meal. You can eat them with pasta, rice, or just dip them in sauce. This recipe for baked beef meatballs is super simple.
You mix ground beef with some spices and breadcrumbs, roll them into balls, and bake them in the oven. That's it! No frying needed, which means less mess and less oil. They come out juicy and flavorful every time. Even if you're not a pro in the kitchen, you can totally do this.
Why This Recipe Works
One of the best things about this recipe is that it's simple but still so tasty. You don't need any fancy ingredients or equipment. Just a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and an oven. Because you're baking the meatballs, you don't have to stand over a hot stove flipping them. This makes it easier and safer, especially if you're cooking with kids. Plus, baking means the meatballs get cooked evenly all around.
Another reason this recipe rocks is its versatility. You can add them to spaghetti, put them in a sandwich, or serve them as a snack at a party. And the flavor? Superb! The ground beef combines with garlic, onion, and spices to make a meatball that's just bursting with taste. You can also customize the recipe by adding in your favorite herbs or spices. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to make them again and again.
Ingredients
Ground Beef- This is the main part of your meatballs. About 1 pound should do it. You can use turkey or chicken as a healthier option.
Breadcrumbs- They help hold the meatballs together. If you're gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Egg-You'll need one. It acts like glue for the meat and breadcrumbs. If you're allergic, you can use a "flax egg" (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoon water).
Garlic- One or two cloves, minced. Garlic gives great flavor but you can skip it if you don't like it.
Salt and Pepper- For taste. You can also add other spices like paprika or Italian seasoning if you like.
Tips
- Don't over-mix the meat; it can make the meatballs tough.
- If you have time, chill the meatball mix for about 30 minutes before shaping. It helps them hold together better.
- Use an ice cream scoop to make uniform meatballs.
- You can fry or bake the meatballs. Baking is healthier.
- Meatballs freeze well. Make a big batch and save some for later.
How to Serve
Meatballs are super versatile. You can toss them in pasta sauce for a classic spaghetti and meatballs dinner, or you can put them in a sub for a meatball sandwich. They're also great as appetizers; just stick a toothpick in each one and serve with dipping sauce.
- Spaghetti and Meatballs: The classic way to serve. Just cook some pasta and pour marinara sauce over.
- Meatball Sub: Take a sub roll, add meatballs and some melted cheese.
- Meatball Skewers: Stick three or four meatballs on a skewer and serve them as an appetizer at parties.
Similar Recipes
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Baked Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1-2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a big bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Don't mix too much.
- Shape the mix into balls. Use an ice cream scoop for uniform size.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
- Serve with your favorite sauce or as described in the "How to Serve:" section.
Nutrition
Notes
- Don't over-mix the meat; it can make the meatballs tough.
- If you have time, chill the meatball mix for about 30 minutes before shaping. It helps them hold together better.
- Use an ice cream scoop to make uniform meatballs.
- You can fry or bake the meatballs. Baking is healthier.
- Meatballs freeze well. Make a big batch and save some for later.