Simple Ground Beef Meatballs

There’s something inherently comforting about a plate of homemade meatballs. This simple ground beef meatball recipe brings together just a handful of ingredients to deliver a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a cozy family gathering, these meatballs are sure to please. My first attempt at crafting them in my kitchen resulted in joyful faces around the table, and I quickly realized that homemade meatballs can turn even the busiest of nights into something special.

Why make this recipe

What Makes This Recipe Special

One of the great things about this simple ground beef meatball recipe is its remarkable ability to bridge the gap between comfort food and elegant dining. It’s not just about the taste—it’s about the ease of preparation and the flexibility of serving. In just a matter of minutes, you can create a dish that feels homely yet sophisticated, making it perfect for casual dinners, Sunday family meals, or even special occasions.

"These meatballs were a hit! My kids loved them, and I loved how easy they were to make. I can’t believe I waited so long to try this recipe." – Maria T.

With minimal ingredients and time involved, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Toss them into pasta, serve with a side salad, or transform them into meatball subs for a crowd-pleasing, kid-approved meal. Whether it’s a lazy Monday or a festive Friday night, this recipe deserves a regular spot on your table.

How to make Simple Ground Beef Meatballs

Step-by-step Instructions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep work, and the cooking process is straightforward enough to follow even for novice chefs. Here’s what you can expect: you’ll mix your ingredients, shape your meatballs, and cook them until they’re perfectly browned and cooked through. Let’s dive into the steps that will take your meatballs from the mixing bowl to your dining table.

Ingredients

What you’ll need

To whip up these delightful meatballs, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – A staple for meatballs, providing protein and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – This helps bind the meatballs and adds texture.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For an added layer of flavor and richness.
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley – Fresh herbs brighten the dish and enhance its appeal.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – A bit of garlic goes a long way in flavoring your meatballs.
• 1 egg – Acts as a binding agent.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Olive oil for cooking – Infuses a pleasant flavor while helping in browning.

Optional substitutions may include using ground turkey or a gluten-free breadcrumbs alternative.

Directions

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined—get in there with your hands if needed!
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, making them about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs and cook until they’re nicely browned on all sides and fully cooked through, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
6. Serve warm, over a bed of pasta or as part of your own delicious concoction.

How to serve Simple Ground Beef Meatballs

Serving Ideas

These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. For an Italian twist, serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce for a classic dish that’s always a winner. Alternatively, place them in a sub roll, top with melted cheese, and you’ve got a hearty meatball sub perfect for game day. Pairing them with a fresh side salad complements the richness of the meatballs and adds a refreshing crunch.

How to store

Storage Tips

To keep your leftover meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just place cooled, cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they’ll maintain their shape, and you can enjoy them for up to three months. When reheating, make sure they are heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Tips to make

Pro chef tips

• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is combined to keep your meatballs tender.
• Chill the mixture: If you have time, let the meatball mixture rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before forming them; this helps them hold their shape while cooking.
• Test one first: If you’re unsure about seasoning, fry a small meatball in the skillet first to taste—and adjust the seasoning if needed!

Variations

Creative twists

While the classic meatball is delightful in its own right, there are many ways to infuse different flavors. Consider adding Italian spices like oregano and basil for a more fragrant meatball, or incorporate finely chopped spinach for a pop of color and added nutrition. For a spicy twist, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or serve with a zesty dipping sauce. You could also go global by making a teriyaki glaze or a rich curry sauce to accompany your meatballs.

FAQs

Your questions answered

1. How long does it take to prep and cook these meatballs?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking takes an additional 8-10 minutes, making it an efficient choice for a quick meal.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and can produce deliciously lighter meatballs.

3. How can I ensure the meatballs stay moist?
Avoid overcooking them and consider the binding ingredients, like egg and breadcrumbs, which help retain moisture.

By exploring the world of simple ground beef meatballs, you not only get to enjoy a hearty meal but also the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. These tips and ideas will have you mastering meatballs in no time!

Simple Ground Beef Meatballs

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• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting homemade meatball recipe that’s simple to make and versatile enough to please everyone.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, making them about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs and cook until they’re nicely browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.
6. Serve warm, over a bed of pasta or as desired.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using Italian spices like oregano and basil or adding finely chopped spinach.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: meatballs, ground beef, comfort food, Italian recipe, family dinner