Ground Beef Meatballs

Published: June 20, 2025

by samuel cullingham

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These ground beef meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy nights
Each bite bursts with savory flavors that keep everyone coming back for more
Their golden-brown appearance is not only appetizing but also Instagram-worthy
You can serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even toss them in pasta for a complete meal

I still chuckle when I remember the first time I made these meatballs for a potluck. My friends couldn’t stop raving about them, and one even tried to sneak away with the leftover container!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious potato salad side.

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess grease; 80% lean is ideal.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to create a great texture and absorb moisture.
Eggs: One egg binds the mixture together; ensure they’re at room temperature for consistency.
Garlic Powder: This adds depth; fresh garlic works too if you prefer a bolder flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan enhances flavor; use fresh if possible for richer taste.
Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley brightens up the meatballs; you can substitute with dried if needed.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust to your taste preference but don’t skimp on flavor!
Olive Oil: A splash for frying ensures crispy edges while keeping them moist inside.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Scoop and Shape Meatballs: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Keep your hands damp to prevent sticking; this little trick keeps things tidy!

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Wait until it shimmers before adding meatballs, this helps achieve that lovely golden crust.

Sear the Meatballs: Gently place meatballs in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides; resist moving them too much, it’s all about that crust!

Add Sauce (Optional): If desired, pour marinara sauce over seared meatballs and simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes. This step infuses extra flavor and keeps everything moist.

Serve and Enjoy!: Serve hot alongside pasta or on their own, don’t forget some crusty bread to mop up any leftover sauce! Everyone will be asking you for seconds.

Now you have mouthwatering ground beef meatballs ready to please any crowd! The easy recipe guarantees smiles around the dinner table every time you whip these up. quick beef and broccoli stir fry.

You Must Know

Ground beef meatballs are not just hearty; they can transform into gourmet bites with a few tweaks
The aroma while cooking is mouthwatering, and the texture can be perfectly tender if handled correctly
Plus, they freeze well for a quick meal any day!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your ground beef with seasoning and breadcrumbs. Shape into meatballs, then sear in a hot skillet before simmering in sauce for juicy perfection.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding grated cheese or fresh herbs to your meatball mixture for extra flavor. You could also swap the breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats for a different texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect ground beef meatballs, choose 80/20 beef for optimal moisture and flavor
Avoid overmixing to keep them tender and juicy
Let them rest after cooking to retain their delicious juices, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor

I remember the first time I made ground beef meatballs; my family devoured them within minutes! Their smiles and compliments made me realize I’d stumbled upon something truly special. For more inspiration, check out this oven-baked barbecue ribs recipe.

FAQ

Can I use leaner ground beef for meatballs?

Yes, but they may turn out drier without added fat or moisture.

How long do ground beef meatballs take to cook?

Cook them for about 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until browned.

Can I freeze leftover meatballs?

Absolutely! They freeze well and can be reheated later for a quick meal.

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