Name: Savory Italian Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487082H26M22S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste

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These Savory Italian Meatballs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering. Made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning, these meatballs are packed with flavor and incredibly tender. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as part of a meatball appetizer platter, they’re sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Italian meatballs are simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor. The combination of ground beef, garlic, and Italian seasoning gives them a classic, savory taste. The grated Parmesan adds a nice depth of flavor, while the breadcrumbs and egg keep the meatballs moist and tender. They’re versatile, delicious, and perfect for any occasion!

Savory Italian Meatballs

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).
Serve: Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with pasta, marinara sauce, or on their own as a snack!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 18 meatballs (depending on size).

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 18-20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Meatball Subs: Place the meatballs in a sub roll, top with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for a delicious meatball sub.
Alternative Meat: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the meatballs after baking. Place them in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Simply shape the meatballs, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use fresh bread instead of breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use fresh bread, but make sure to toast it lightly and then crumble it into small pieces before using it in the meatball mixture.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check with a meat thermometer to ensure they’re done.

Can I cook the meatballs in a skillet instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the meatballs in a skillet. Heat some olive oil over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).

Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Grana Padano.

Conclusion

These Savory Italian Meatballs are a simple and tasty dish that everyone will love. With their tender texture and classic Italian seasoning, they’re perfect for pasta dishes, sandwiches, or even served as a stand-alone appetizer. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a party, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that will never go out of style!