Name: Easy Baked Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20); 1/2 lb ground pork; 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free, if preferred); 1 large egg; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 cups tomato sauce (for baking)

I absolutely love making meatballs, and when you bake them, it’s just such a convenient way to prepare this classic dish. The aroma of freshly baked meatballs filling your kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. These easy baked meatballs are flavorful, tender, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, a party, or just as a weeknight meal, they never disappoint.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can create juicy, flavorful meatballs that are baked to perfection. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be served with pasta, in sandwiches, or as appetizers. If you’re looking for an effortless yet delicious meal, these easy baked meatballs are the answer.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Baked Meatballs

These meatballs are not only quick to make but also packed with flavor. By baking them instead of frying, you get a lighter version without compromising on taste. The combination of ground meat, seasonings, and a tangy glaze makes each bite savory and satisfying. Additionally, baking ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy inside. You’ll find yourself reaching for these meatballs time and time again!

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Easy Baked Meatballs?

When it comes to meatballs, the type of ground meat you choose plays a big role in the flavor and texture. For these easy baked meatballs, I recommend using a combination of ground beef and ground pork. The beef gives them that hearty flavor, while the pork adds moisture and tenderness. However, you can also use other meats based on your preferences.

If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted. These meats tend to be drier, so adding a bit more seasoning or breadcrumbs can help keep them moist. The choice is ultimately yours, depending on what you’re looking for in flavor and texture!

Options for Substitutions

There are plenty of ways to customize these meatballs if you’re looking for substitutions or if you have dietary preferences. Here are a few options:

Breadcrumbs: If you’re out of breadcrumbs or prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed-up crackers. You can also use rolled oats as a substitute for a different texture.
Eggs: If you’re avoiding eggs, you can substitute with a flaxseed mixture or a small amount of unsweetened applesauce, which works great as a binder.
Cheese: If you’re a fan of cheese, try adding grated Parmesan into the meatball mixture for extra flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, simply leave it out or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

These substitutions keep the recipe flexible and customizable to your needs!

Ingredients for Easy Baked Meatballs

Ground Beef

Ground beef is the primary meat in this recipe, offering a rich and hearty flavor. It provides the base for these meatballs and helps achieve that satisfying texture. You can choose a leaner or fattier blend depending on your preference, but I recommend 80/20 for a perfect balance of flavor and moisture.

Ground Pork

Ground pork adds juiciness and tenderness to the meatballs, making them softer and more flavorful. The fat content in the pork helps keep the meatballs moist during baking, preventing them from drying out.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs are essential for binding the meat together and absorbing the moisture in the meat. They give the meatballs structure and a nice, soft texture. If you’re gluten-free, there are great alternatives like gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Egg

The egg helps bind all the ingredients together, making the meatballs hold their shape as they bake. It also adds a little richness to the overall flavor.

Parmesan Cheese

Grated Parmesan cheese brings a savory, salty flavor to the meatballs and helps with the overall texture. It also adds a nice richness that complements the other ingredients.

Garlic

Garlic is an essential ingredient that brings a wonderful aromatic flavor to the meatballs. Fresh garlic cloves are best, but you can substitute with garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.

Italian Seasoning

Italian seasoning gives these meatballs a warm, herby flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef and pork. It typically includes herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, which complement the other ingredients beautifully.

Salt & Pepper

Salt and pepper are key seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in the meatballs. Be sure to season generously, but adjust to taste as needed.

Tomato Sauce (for baking)

A rich, tangy tomato sauce creates a flavorful base for the meatballs while they bake. It adds moisture and keeps the meatballs juicy. Plus, it’s a classic accompaniment to meatballs, making them even more delicious.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the meatballs bake evenly. While the oven heats up, prepare a baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the meatballs from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s evenly combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Once your meatball mixture is ready, use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs. I recommend making them about 1 1/2 inches in diameter for even cooking. You should get around 16-20 meatballs, depending on the size. Arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Place the baking dish or baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. You can check their internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C) for ground beef and pork.

Step 5: Add the Tomato Sauce

After baking, remove the meatballs from the oven and carefully pour tomato sauce over the top. You can either use store-bought or homemade sauce, depending on your preference. Return the meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat up and soak into the meatballs.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the meatballs are done, take them out of the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, either on their own, with pasta, or on a sub roll for a meatball sandwich!

How Long to Cook Easy Baked Meatballs

Cooking time for these easy baked meatballs is relatively short, making them an ideal dish for busy weeknights. The meatballs will need to bake for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Keep in mind that the cooking time can vary depending on the size of your meatballs, so if they are larger or smaller than 1 1/2 inches in diameter, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. The key to perfectly cooked meatballs is ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

After baking, you’ll add the tomato sauce and let the meatballs bake for an additional 5 minutes to heat the sauce through. This brings the total cooking time to around 25-30 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Easy Baked Meatballs

Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat and ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can result in dense, tough meatballs. Mix just until everything is evenly distributed.
Even Sizing: Make sure the meatballs are uniform in size to ensure they cook evenly. A cookie scoop can help you achieve consistent-sized meatballs.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid undercooking or overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Ground beef and pork should reach 160°F (71°C) internally.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps them set and makes them easier to serve without falling apart.
Opt for a Light Glaze: If you like your meatballs with a little extra flavor, brush them with a bit of your favorite BBQ sauce or glaze before baking for a unique twist.

These tips will help you achieve perfectly baked meatballs every time, with that perfect balance of tender meat and a crisp exterior!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overmixing the Meat: One of the most common mistakes when making meatballs is overmixing the meat mixture. Overworking the ingredients can make the meatballs dense and tough. Be gentle and mix just until everything is incorporated.
Not Using Enough Binder: Breadcrumbs and egg act as binders in meatballs, holding everything together. If you skip or reduce these ingredients too much, your meatballs may fall apart during baking. Make sure you include enough breadcrumbs and egg for the best texture.
Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking is crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute. If you cut into them too quickly, they might fall apart and lose their juiciness.
Baking at Too High a Temperature: While 400°F (200°C) is ideal, baking meatballs at too high of a temperature can cause them to burn on the outside before cooking through on the inside. Stick to the recommended temperature for an even bake.
Not Checking Internal Temperature: If you’re unsure whether your meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. This ensures they are safe to eat and cooked to perfection, without being overdone or undercooked.
Not Spacing the Meatballs: When placing the meatballs on the baking sheet, make sure they are spaced evenly and not touching each other. Crowding them can prevent them from cooking properly, resulting in uneven cooking or soggy meatballs.
Using the Wrong Meat Combination: For the best flavor and texture, use a combination of ground beef and pork. Using all lean ground beef, for example, might lead to dry meatballs. If you’re using turkey or chicken, make sure to add extra moisture like grated vegetables or a little more fat.
Not Letting the Sauce Heat Through: After adding the tomato sauce, be sure to let the meatballs bake in the sauce for a few more minutes to absorb the flavors. Skipping this step will leave your meatballs a bit bland.

What to Serve with Easy Baked Meatballs?

1. Spaghetti

A classic pairing, spaghetti and meatballs are always a hit! The rich tomato sauce and tender meatballs create a comforting, filling meal.

2. Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with garlic bread on the side. The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

3. Mashed Potatoes

For a hearty, satisfying meal, serve the meatballs with a side of creamy mashed potatoes. They absorb the tomato sauce wonderfully!

4. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers bring a burst of flavor and freshness to balance out the richness of the meatballs.

5. Caesar Salad

A crisp, refreshing Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing makes for a perfect side to cut through the richness of the meatballs.

6. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is an excellent side dish that complements the flavors of the meatballs without overpowering them. The mild flavor and light texture pair beautifully.

7. Polenta

For a slightly different twist, try pairing your meatballs with creamy polenta. The soft texture works well with the hearty meatballs and sauce.

8. Side of Pickles

The tanginess of pickles offers a sharp contrast to the rich meatballs, providing a nice balance of flavors in your meal.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftover easy baked meatballs, don’t worry! They store wonderfully and can be enjoyed later. To store them:

Let them cool: Allow the meatballs to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, which can make them soggy.
Refrigeration: Place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If they’re in sauce, store them together, as the sauce helps keep them moist.
Freezing: If you want to keep them for longer, meatballs freeze very well. Arrange the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or heat them in a saucepan with sauce on medium heat until warmed through.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general estimate of the nutritional content for one serving (approximately 3 meatballs):

Calories: 250-300 kcal
Protein: 20-25 grams
Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams
Fat: 15-20 grams
Fiber: 1-2 grams
Sodium: 500-600 mg

Keep in mind that the exact nutritional content can vary depending on the ingredients used, such as the type of meat, cheese, and any added sauces. If you’re concerned about the nutrition, consider adjusting the ingredients, like opting for leaner meat or reducing the amount of cheese and breadcrumbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use only ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use only ground beef, but the meatballs may be a bit drier. The addition of ground pork adds moisture and tenderness, so using a mix of both gives the best results. If you prefer to use just ground beef, opt for a fattier blend (such as 80/20) to keep the meatballs juicy.

2. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This gives the flavors time to meld together. You can also freeze them before or after baking—just be sure to follow the proper storage instructions to maintain freshness.

3. Can I bake these meatballs without adding sauce?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs without sauce. They will cook just as well. If you prefer a drier version, simply skip the sauce after baking, and serve them with dipping sauces on the side, like marinara or BBQ sauce.

4. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can substitute with crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even a gluten-free alternative, like almond meal or rice breadcrumbs. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to maintain the right consistency in the meatball mixture.

5. How do I know when my meatballs are done?

The best way to check if your meatballs are cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for ground beef and pork. If you don’t have a thermometer, check that they are browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center.

6. Can I use ground turkey for this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey can be used instead of beef and pork. Keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so the meatballs might turn out drier. To combat this, consider adding a bit more fat (like olive oil or an extra egg) or mixing in some grated vegetables to maintain moisture.

7. Can I make these meatballs without egg?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), or use a small amount of applesauce or mashed potatoes as a binder. These options will help the meatballs hold their shape.

8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftover meatballs, you can either bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or heat them in a saucepan with sauce on medium heat for 5-10 minutes, until warmed through. If frozen, allow them to thaw first before reheating.

Conclusion

These easy baked meatballs are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or meal prep, they’re guaranteed to please everyone! Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends so they can enjoy it too. Enjoy the delicious flavors and convenience that come with these mouthwatering meatballs!