These oven-baked meatballs are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep and offering maximum flavor. No more greasy frying pans or splattering oil – this recipe lets the oven do all the work, resulting in perfectly tender and juicy meatballs every single time.
This recipe is a great base, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Feeling adventurous? Throw in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or crumbled feta cheese. Craving a bit of heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dollop of sriracha.
So ditch the takeout menus and whip up a batch of these delicious homemade meatballs. They’re perfect for serving over pasta, nestled in a bed of marinara sauce on a sub roll, or enjoyed as an appetizer with a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until well combined. Don’t overmix, or your meatballs will become tough.
3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You can use a spoon or a small ice cream scoop to make this process easier. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
5. Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts:
(Per Serving – 1 Meatball)
Calories: 220
Please note: These are approximate nutrition facts and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.
Conclusion
These oven-baked meatballs are a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. They’re easy to make, require minimal cleanup, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Plus, they’re a great source of protein and can be easily incorporated into a healthy and balanced meal plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that these meats are leaner than beef, so you may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture to help keep the meatballs moist.
2. How can I tell if the meatballs are cooked through?
The best way to tell if the meatballs are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 160°F (71°C).
3. What can I serve with these meatballs?
There are endless possibilities for serving these meatballs! Here are a few ideas:
Over a bed of pasta with your favorite marinara sauce
4. Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can definitely freeze these meatballs! Once they are cooked and cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
5. Can I make these meatballs in a slow cooker?
