The Best Homemade Simple Meatball Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade meatball recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering.
- You’ll love how easy it is to make with basic ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The meatballs turn out juicy and flavorful every time, thanks to a few handy tips.
- They’re super versatile—serve them with pasta, in a sandwich, or even as appetizers with your favorite dipping sauce.
Recipe
Meatballs are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed in various ways—whether served with pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own. This homemade meatball recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 20-24 meatballs).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, browning on all sides (about 6-8 minutes total).
- If serving with sauce, transfer browned meatballs to a pot of simmering marinara sauce and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Notes:
- For a lighter option, bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
- Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for later use.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or baking sheet
- Measuring cups/spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American
Serving: 4-6 servings
Nutrition
Meatballs are a rich source of protein and essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade meatballs with classic pasta options like spaghetti or fettuccine for a hearty meal, but don’t stop there—side dishes can make all the difference. Try a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread to balance the richness, or roasted veggies if you’re feeling a bit healthier. You’ve got so many options to make this meal your own!
Side Dishes
Pairing your homemade meatballs with the right sides can turn a simple meal into something special. I love serving them with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables like zucchini and carrots for a cozy, balanced plate. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, while garlic bread or focaccia soaks up any extra sauce perfectly. For something lighter, try steamed green beans or a quinoa salad. Sometimes, I’ll even go for roasted sweet potatoes topped with a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory twist. These sides complement the meatballs without stealing the spotlight, making every bite satisfying.
Pasta Options
While side dishes are great, nothing quite beats the classic combo of meatballs and pasta. My go-to is spaghetti—it’s simple, hearty, and lets the meatballs shine. I also love pairing them with penne or rigatoni; their ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully. For a twist, try fettuccine or linguine, especially if you’re using a creamy sauce. Sometimes I go all out with baked ziti, layering meatballs with pasta and cheese for a cozy casserole. Even gnocchi works if you’re feeling fancy! Whichever pasta you choose, don’t forget to toss it in sauce and top it with those tasty meatballs.
