Best Easy Homemade Meatball Recipe
A plate of juicy, flavourful meatballs is one of the most comforting meals you can make at home. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create tender meatballs that are rich in taste and perfect for any occasion. Whether you want to serve them with spaghetti, tuck them into a warm sub roll, or enjoy them on their own with a side of vegetables, these meatballs will quickly become a family favourite.
What makes this recipe truly stand out is how easy it is to prepare while still delivering that homemade taste everyone loves. With just a few pantry staples, you can create meatballs that are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. They are versatile, satisfying, and always a crowd pleaser, making this the kind of recipe you will turn to again and again whenever you need a quick and delicious meal.
Why You Need This Recipe
Homemade meatballs are one of those timeless dishes that never go out of style, and this recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavour. Instead of relying on store bought options, making them at home gives you control over the ingredients, seasoning, and texture, ensuring every bite is just the way you like it.
This recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can serve these meatballs with pasta, enjoy them in a sandwich, or even prepare them as appetizers for gatherings. They freeze beautifully, making them an excellent option for meal prep. If you want a recipe that is reliable, flavorful, and always a hit at the table, this is the one you will want to keep in your collection.
Ingredients
These simple ingredients come together to create juicy, flavorful meatballs that taste just like homemade comfort should.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (80% lean) | 1 lb (450g) | 960 kcal |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup (60g) | 220 kcal |
| Grated parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup (50g) | 210 kcal |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 kcal |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | 10 kcal |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1/4 cup | 5 kcal |
| Onion, finely grated | 1 small (70g) | 30 kcal |
| Milk | 1/4 cup (60ml) | 40 kcal |
| Olive oil (for cooking) | 2 tbsp (30ml) | 240 kcal |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 kcal |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | 0 kcal |
| Total per serving (makes 4 servings) | – | ~448 kcal |
How to Prepare
To make these easy homemade meatballs, start by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, a beaten egg, minced garlic, grated onion, chopped parsley, milk, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix everything gently with your hands until the ingredients are well combined, but be careful not to overmix so the meatballs stay tender. Shape the mixture into even sized balls, about one to two inches in diameter. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and place the meatballs in the pan, cooking them in batches if necessary. Turn them occasionally until all sides are golden brown and the meatballs are cooked through, which usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes. Once done, you can enjoy them on their own, simmer them in marinara sauce for extra flavour, or serve them over pasta for a classic comfort meal.
Pro Tips
For the juiciest meatballs, avoid overmixing the ingredients as this can make them dense and tough. Using a gentle hand when shaping the meatballs will help keep them light and tender. If you prefer extra flavour, try mixing ground beef with ground pork or ground turkey for a delicious blend. Chilling the shaped meatballs in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape better during frying. To keep them moist, you can also finish cooking the meatballs by simmering them in tomato sauce instead of just pan frying. These small details make a big difference and will help you achieve meatballs that taste like they came straight from an Italian kitchen.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Homemade meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. The classic choice is to serve them over a bed of spaghetti with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a comforting Italian style meal. They also taste amazing tucked into a warm sub roll with melted mozzarella for a hearty meatball sandwich. For lighter options, pair them with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. As for toppings, you can add fresh basil, extra parmesan, or even a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavours. Whether you are serving them at dinner or as party appetizers, these meatballs can be paired and customized to fit any occasion.
Conclusion
The best easy homemade meatball recipe is all about simple ingredients, quick preparation, and big flavour. With tender texture, rich seasoning, and endless serving options, these meatballs are a dish you can rely on for both busy weeknights and special family meals. They are hearty, versatile, and always satisfying, making them a recipe worth keeping in your collection.
Once you try this recipe, you will see how easy it is to bring comfort and flavour to the table without much effort. Whether paired with pasta, tucked into a sandwich, or served on their own with sauce, these homemade meatballs are sure to become a favourite that you will want to make again and again.
