Easy Baked Meatballs
Easy Baked Meatballs
These oven-baked meatballs are fast and easy to prepare and very kid-friendly. You can serve them with pasta and spaghetti sauce or just eat them with ketchup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These baked meatballs are a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Plus, they are versatile—perfect for pairing with pasta for a family dinner or serving as fun finger food for kids. The combination of lean ground beef and aromatic herbs ensures that they are both healthy and flavorful.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb of lean ground beef
- 2 eggs beaten with ½ cup of milk
- ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of panko or breadcrumbs
- 1 small minced garlic
- 2 minced cloves of garlic
- ½ tsp of oregano
- 1 tsp of salt
- Freshly ground pepper
- ¼ cup of minced fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, beaten eggs with milk, parmesan cheese, panko or breadcrumbs, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
- Mix the ingredients until they are well combined.
- Form the mixture into golfball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until they are cooked through and slightly browned on the outside.
Tips for Success
To ensure your meatballs are perfectly moist and flavorful, avoid over-mixing the ingredients. This can make the meatballs tough. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or substitute the beef with ground turkey for a leaner option. You can also serve these meatballs with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or on top of a bed of spaghetti for a classic Italian meal.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of these meatballs is high in protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals from the herbs and cheese. They are also relatively low in carbohydrates, making them a great option for those watching their carb intake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs either before or after baking. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
How long do leftovers last in the refrigerator?
Cooked meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the parmesan with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
These easy baked meatballs are a delicious and versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a quick weeknight dinner or bringing them to a potluck, they are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Share your experiences and any creative twists you come up with in the comments below.
Source: bettycrocker.com
