Ground Beef Meatballs

Name: Savory Ground Beef Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20); 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp Italian herbs (oregano and basil); 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Optional: Marinara sauce for serving

Published: June 20, 2025

by Hailey parker

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for that perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. For more inspiration, check out this Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe.
Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for extra moisture; it makes all the difference.
Eggs: They act as a binder; I prefer using large eggs for consistency.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds depth; pre-grated cheese just doesn’t cut it.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs more flavor than powdered; don’t skimp!
Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano and basil brings Italian authenticity; you can also experiment with fresh herbs.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient; adjust to your taste.
Olive Oil: For cooking; use extra virgin for richer flavor.

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

Let’s Make it together

Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and herbs. Get your hands in there; mixing by hand ensures even distribution.

Shape The Meatballs: Grab about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into balls. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly, around 1-inch diameter works great!

Brown The Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs carefully without overcrowding the pan. Sear until golden brown on all sides, about 7 minutes should do it.

Add Sauce (Optional): If you’re feeling saucy (pun intended), pour marinara sauce over the browned meatballs. Cover and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until cooked through.

Serve Hot!: Once cooked thoroughly (internal temperature should reach 160°F), serve immediately with pasta or crusty bread, perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce!

Cooking these ground beef meatballs isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories in your kitchen filled with laughter and love. creamy pasta with ground beef Enjoy every moment!

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Ground beef meatballs are not just tasty; they are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. The combination of spices and seasoning can elevate the dish while making it a family favorite. Plus, they freeze well for easy future meals. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your ingredients thoroughly before forming them into meatballs. Sear them in a hot pan to lock in moisture, then bake until cooked through for that perfect texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Experiment with herbs like basil or mint, or add cheese for an extra cheesy delight.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep them juicy and flavorful.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use breadcrumbs soaked in milk to keep meatballs tender. Don’t overcrowd the pan while searing; this ensures even cooking. Always allow them to rest after baking to enhance flavors. [/info_box]

Making these meatballs reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the dining table, sharing stories and laughter while devouring my mom’s famous recipe.