Easy Meatball Recipe

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Few things bring comfort like a warm bowl of tender meatballs swimming in a rich tomato sauce over a nest of pasta. This Easy Meatball Recipe is your go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick prep, you’ll be amazed how flavorful homemade meatballs can be.

Each meatball is juicy, perfectly seasoned, and seared to lock in flavor before simmering in your favorite marinara. Whether you’re serving it with spaghetti, in subs, or even as appetizers with toothpicks, this recipe is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Meatball Recipe

• Simple ingredients you already have at home.
• Great for meal prep or freezing.
• Picky-eater approved and kid-friendly.
• Feeds a family without fuss.
• Works with beef, turkey, or pork!

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Meatballs?

Ground beef is the classic choice, ideally 80/20 for the perfect balance of fat and flavor. But you can easily swap in ground pork, turkey, or a combo for your own twist. For extra juicy meatballs, avoid very lean meat unless you’re balancing with added moisture like milk-soaked breadcrumbs.

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Ingredients for the Easy Meatball Recipe

Ground Beef: Forms the base of the meatballs with richness and flavor.

Breadcrumbs: Help bind the mixture and keep the texture light.

Milk: Soaks the breadcrumbs to ensure the meatballs are moist and tender.

Egg: Acts as a binder so the meatballs hold their shape.

Garlic & Onion: Adds essential aromatics and depth of flavor.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty richness to each bite.

Parsley: Fresh and herby, perfect for balancing the richness.

Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to round out the flavors.

Olive Oil: For searing the meatballs to golden perfection.

Marinara Sauce: The cozy finish, perfect for simmering the meatballs.

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How To Make the Easy Meatball Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Breadcrumbs

In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with milk. Let sit for 5 minutes so the crumbs can absorb the liquid fully.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Add ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the soaked breadcrumbs. Gently mix with clean hands until everything is evenly incorporated. Don’t overmix!

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 16 even-sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches each. Place them on a tray or plate.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides (about 5-6 minutes total). Transfer them to a plate.

Step 5: Simmer in Sauce

Pour your favorite marinara sauce into the same skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the browned meatballs back to the pan and simmer for 20 minutes, covered, until cooked through and tender.

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How to Serve These Juicy Meatballs

This recipe makes 16 meatballs, serving about 4 to 5 people generously. Spoon them over spaghetti, pile them into hoagie rolls for meatball subs, or serve with garlic bread and salad. You can even skip the carbs and plate them with roasted veggies for a low-carb meal.

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How to Store These Meatballs

Leftovers? You’re in luck. Store any cooled meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze beautifully — lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm gently in sauce on the stovetop or microwave.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works great. Just choose a version with a bit of fat (not 99% lean) to keep them juicy.

Can I bake instead of fry the meatballs?
Absolutely. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check your marinara sauce ingredients.

Can I prep them ahead of time?
Definitely. Form the meatballs and refrigerate them up to a day in advance before cooking.

What’s the best pasta to serve with these?
Spaghetti is the classic, but any pasta works—think penne, rigatoni, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with Hearty Comfort?

If you loved these meatballs, try these cozy favorites from Life With Livia:

• Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese
• Old Fashioned Goulash
• Meatballs and Gravy
• Runza Casserole
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist or stick to the classic? Did your kids devour them like mine?

I love hearing your takes on these meals. Drop your questions below too—let’s make dinner better, together.

Find even more recipes I cook daily on my Pinterest: Life With Livia

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