20-Minute Easy Baked Meatballs: The Best Homemade Meatball Recipe
Looking for the best homemade meatball recipe? These 20-minute Easy Baked Meatballs are a game-changer for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Perfectly seasoned, tender, and juicy, these meatballs are baked to golden perfection, making them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, in a sub, or as a standalone appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
The secret to these meatballs lies in their simplicity and speed. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that’s rich and satisfying. Plus, baking the meatballs ensures they’re evenly cooked and less messy than frying. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Savory, herbaceous, and slightly sweet, thanks to a blend of garlic, parsley, and a touch of Parmesan.
- Texture: Tender and juicy on the inside, with a lightly crisp exterior from baking.
- Aroma: Aromatic herbs and garlic fill your kitchen with an irresistible scent as they bake.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown meatballs that look as good as they taste, perfect for plating or serving in a rustic bowl.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly, with straightforward steps and minimal prep work.
- Special Equipment: Just a baking sheet and mixing bowl—no fancy tools required!
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This recipe is perfect for beginners, with easy-to-follow instructions and minimal hands-on time.
- Category: Main dish, appetizer, or party food—these meatballs are versatile!
- Cuisine: Inspired by Italian-American flavors, but adaptable to various cuisines.
- Cost: Budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients like ground beef and pantry staples.
- Season: Great year-round, but especially comforting during colder months.
- Occasion: Ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day snacks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Easy Baked Meatballs are a winner for so many reasons. First, their flavor is unbeatable—each bite is packed with savory herbs, garlic, and a hint of Parmesan. The texture is equally impressive: tender and juicy on the inside, with a slight crispness from baking. Unlike frying, baking ensures even cooking and less mess, making cleanup a breeze.
Convenience is another major perk. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. You don’t need any special equipment—just a baking sheet and a mixing bowl. Plus, the ingredients are simple and affordable, so you can whip up a batch without breaking the bank.
Nutritionally, these meatballs are a great source of protein and can be easily adapted to fit various dietary needs. Serve them with a side of veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They’re also freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and save some for later.
Socially, these meatballs are a hit at gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing a dish to a potluck, they’re sure to impress. Their versatility makes them suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
Finally, this recipe is cost-effective and accessible. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or tools, and the results are restaurant-quality. It’s a recipe that delivers big on flavor without requiring a lot of time, effort, or money.
The Recipe
20-Minute Easy Baked Meatballs
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs (about 20-24 meatballs) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sauce, pasta, or as an appetizer. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pair with marinara sauce, Alfredo, or a simple garlic butter sauce for added flavor.
