Easy Meatball Recipe

Looking for a simple, delicious, and juicy meatball recipe? This easy meatball recipe combines ground beef and pork with Italian breadcrumbs, herbs, and Parmesan for the perfect texture and flavor. Baked to golden perfection in just 20 minutes, these baked meatballs are a family favorite and ideal for a quick weeknight dinner. Serve them with pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer for your next gathering. Whether you’re making classic meatballs or trying something new, this easy homemade meatball recipe is a must-try for meatball lovers!

Ingredients:

• ½ lb ground beef
• ½ lb ground pork
• ¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp onion, diced
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp dried marjoram
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, diced onion, garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, thyme, marjoram, egg, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are just combined—be careful not to overmix.
3. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 tablespoon each.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Arrange the meatballs on a greased baking tray, making sure they’re not touching. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve: Once done, remove the meatballs from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy!

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Tips

• Do Not Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
• Use Lean Meat: If you prefer leaner meatballs, use lean ground beef or turkey instead of a combination of beef and pork.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are fully cooked. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

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Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Feel free to substitute the ground beef and pork with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for different flavor profiles.
• Breadcrumb Substitutes: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
• Cheese Options: Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or any other hard cheese you prefer.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like chopped basil, oregano, or thyme for more vibrant flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Can I cook these meatballs in a skillet instead of baking them?
Absolutely! You can pan-fry the meatballs over medium heat, turning them occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?
To ensure your meatballs are cooked through, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. They should reach 160°F (71°C).

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Serving Suggestions

• With Spaghetti: Serve your meatballs with a classic marinara sauce over spaghetti for an Italian-inspired meal.
• Meatball Subs: Place your meatballs in a sub roll, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella, then bake for a delicious meatball sub sandwich.
• Appetizer: These meatballs are perfect for serving as appetizers at a party—serve with toothpicks and a side of dipping sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Meatball Recipe is the perfect go-to for a quick and delicious meal. The combination of beef and pork gives these meatballs an amazing depth of flavor, while the breadcrumbs, herbs, and Parmesan cheese keep them tender and juicy. Whether served on their own, with pasta, or in a sandwich, these meatballs are a family favorite. Plus, they’re simple to make and bake in just 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead!