There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of baked meatballs, perfectly browned and tender, served alongside your favorite pasta or nestled in a warm baguette. The savory aroma filling your kitchen as they bake is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
This recipe became a staple in my household when I was looking for a healthier alternative to pan-fried meatballs. With a blend of aromatic spices and a simple preparation process, these baked meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to whip up on any busy weeknight. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Meatballs Recipe
Get ready to discover your new go-to meatball recipe. These baked beauties are a delicious, versatile, and foolproof way to elevate your meals.
First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. No need to stand over a stovetop or worry about messy splattering oil—just roll, bake, and you’re good to go!
They’re also healthier than traditional fried meatballs. Baking them allows excess fat to drip away while still locking in all the juicy, savory goodness.
Perfect for meal prep, these meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for quick lunches and dinners throughout the week.
Finally, the flavor is unmatched. A blend of tender ground beef, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, and just the right amount of seasoning ensures each bite is packed with taste. Whether served as an appetizer or the main course, these meatballs will steal the show.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one contributes to the delightful flavor and perfect texture of the final dish.
Ground Beef: Choose a blend that’s about 85% lean to ensure your meatballs stay juicy without becoming greasy. Ground lamb or chicken can also work beautifully if you prefer.
Breadcrumbs: These act as the binder, helping your meatballs stay intact and tender. Use fresh or store-bought breadcrumbs—just ensure they’re plain and unseasoned.
Egg: This ingredient adds richness and ensures the meat mixture holds together. If you’re looking for an alternative, a flax egg can work as a substitute.
Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped parsley adds a burst of freshness to balance the rich flavors of the meat. Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
Spices: A combination of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a touch of cumin brings warmth and depth to the meatballs. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences.
Cheese (Optional): A sprinkle of grated parmesan or mozzarella inside the mixture adds a creamy texture and extra savoriness.
For this recipe, you’ll need a large mixing bowl, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and a wire rack for even baking.
How To Make These Baked Meatballs

Making these baked meatballs is as straightforward as it gets. Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked meatballs in no time.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, and all your spices. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense, so aim for a light touch.
Once the mixture is ready, roll it into evenly sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for even cooking.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they’re browned on the outside and cooked through. For an extra golden finish, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
While they bake, prepare your sides or sauce. These meatballs pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad.
Once done, let the meatballs cool slightly before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them tender and flavorful.
Storage Options
These baked meatballs are perfect for making ahead and storing for later use.
In the fridge, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist.
For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
When reheating from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until fully heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to tweak it based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Swap the Protein: Use ground chicken, turkey, or lamb instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
Add a Kick: If you love heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Sneak in Veggies: Finely grated zucchini or carrots blend seamlessly into the mixture, adding moisture and nutrients.
Herb Variations: Try adding fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Experiment with these ideas, and don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. The beauty of these baked meatballs is how adaptable they are to suit your taste and lifestyle.
Enjoy every bite of these juicy, flavorful meatballs, and watch them become a beloved favorite in your home.
PrintThe Best Baked Meatballs Recipe
The best baked meatballs recipe made with wholesome ingredients for a flavorful and juicy result. Perfect for pasta, subs, or as appetizers, this recipe is a must-try for any home cook.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 meatballs 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Global
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, and milk.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Mix until evenly combined.
- Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs (about 1 ½ inches in diameter).
- Place meatballs in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each one.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Serve warm with pasta, in sandwiches, or as a standalone appetizer.
Notes
- For added flavor, brush meatballs with marinara sauce in the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Make the meatballs uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
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