Homemade Meatballs

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Juicy, savory, and full of robust flavor, these Homemade Meatballs are the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re serving them over a mound of spaghetti, stuffing them into a crusty sub roll, or just dipping them in your favorite sauce, these meatballs are sure to satisfy. With a tender texture and a golden crust, they strike the perfect balance between rich and hearty.

This recipe keeps things simple without sacrificing taste. A blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Italian herbs creates a nostalgic, home-cooked vibe that’s irresistible. Baked or pan-fried, they’re ready in no time and freeze beautifully for future meals. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these meatballs will quickly become a household staple.

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What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Meatballs?

While ground beef is the classic go-to, a combination of meats can elevate the flavor and texture. Mixing beef with pork adds a layer of richness, while turkey or chicken makes for a leaner option. The key is to maintain some fat content for moisture and flavor. Aim for 80/20 ground beef if you’re sticking with just one meat.

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Ingredients for the Homemade Meatballs

• Ground Beef (80/20): The foundation of the recipe, providing flavor and fat for moisture.
• Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding the mixture and keeping the meatballs tender.
• Milk: Helps soften the breadcrumbs, creating a light texture.
• Egg: Binds everything together and ensures the meatballs hold their shape.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami punch that deepens the flavor profile.
• Fresh Garlic: Infuses the meat with sharp, aromatic depth.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a classic blend of herbs to round out the flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Balances and enhances all the ingredients.
• Parsley (optional): Freshens up the overall taste and adds color.

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How To Make the Homemade Meatballs

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to soak fully—this helps create a moist, tender meatball. Meanwhile, mince your garlic and chop the parsley if using fresh.

Step 2: Mix It All Together

Add ground beef, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley to the breadcrumb mixture. Use clean hands or a fork to gently combine. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs from becoming dense.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into 1.5-inch balls. Try to keep them uniform in size to ensure even cooking. You should end up with about 18-20 meatballs.

Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method

• Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the meatballs in a single layer. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Pan-Fry: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned and they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Serve Them Up

Once cooked, serve them immediately with pasta, marinara sauce, or tucked inside hoagie rolls for meatball subs. They’re also perfect for freezing and reheating later.

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How to Store and Serve Homemade Meatballs

Homemade meatballs are incredibly versatile and keep well for future meals. If you’re not serving them right away, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container—they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F or simmer in sauce until heated through. This helps retain moisture and flavor without drying them out. Serve hot and enjoy just like the first time!

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What to Serve With Homemade Meatballs?

Spaghetti and Marinara

You can never go wrong with the classic pairing of spaghetti and a rich tomato sauce. The noodles soak up all the flavorful juices.

Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and perfect for mopping up sauce or sandwiching your meatballs.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For a comfort food twist, serve meatballs over buttery mashed potatoes with a drizzle of gravy.

Zucchini Noodles

A low-carb, veggie-packed option that still lets the meatballs shine.

Caesar Salad

The crunch and tang of Caesar salad makes a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of the meatballs.

Roasted Veggies

Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers—a colorful, nutritious addition to your plate.

Crusty Sub Rolls

Turn your meatballs into a mouthwatering sandwich with melted cheese and warm sauce.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving these Homemade Meatballs, wait until you try these other savory dinners from the SavorQueen collection:

• Try the cheesy goodness of Easy Beef Stroganoff for a creamy and satisfying meal.
• Dig into Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy for a slow-cooked, tender delight.
• Spice things up with the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan that brings weeknight pasta to a new level.
• Enjoy comforting, saucy goodness with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes for an easy twist on a favorite.
• Or go bold with the Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce for a fusion of flavor and freshness.

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Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a blend of beef and sausage or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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