When it comes to comfort food, Baked Ground Beef Meatballs are the unsung heroes of the culinary world. Imagine sinking your teeth into these juicy, savory morsels that burst with flavor, leaving you utterly blissed out. The aroma wafts through the kitchen like a siren call, drawing everyone in from every corner of the house, possibly even the neighbor’s cat. These meatballs are not just a dish; they are an experience worthy of a standing ovation.
There’s something undeniably heartwarming about preparing Baked Ground Beef Meatballs on a chilly evening. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia that kicks in when you remember your mom whipping up a batch for family dinners. Or maybe it’s the thrill of knowing that you can impress friends at gatherings without breaking a sweat. Whatever the reason, each bite is packed with memories and flavors promising to tickle your taste buds and warm your soul.
Why You'll Love This Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
- This incredible Baked Ground Beef Meatballs transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I still remember the first time I made these meatballs for my friends; their delighted faces were priceless as they devoured every last one!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of tenderness and flavor.
-
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs and add texture.
-
Eggs: One large egg helps hold everything together; fresh eggs work best.
-
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds that rich umami flavor; freshly grated makes all the difference.
-
Fresh Parsley: Brightens up the flavor profile; use flat-leaf parsley if possible.
-
Garlic Powder: A must-have for depth; feel free to adjust based on your garlic love level.
-
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; don’t skimp on either!
-
Olive Oil: A drizzle on top before baking adds moisture and flavor; extra virgin is ideal.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
Mix Your Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (the best tools ever) to mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
Shape Those Meatballs: Wet your hands slightly and scoop out about two tablespoons of mixture per meatball. Roll them gently into balls and place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
Add Some Flavor Boosters: Drizzle olive oil over each meatball for added moisture during baking. You can sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top if you want to get fancy.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place your baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Serve & Enjoy!: Once baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They pair perfectly with spaghetti or simply on their own as an appetizer!
These Baked Ground Beef Meatballs are more than just food; they’re little bites of happiness wrapped in savory goodness! Whether it’s family dinner night or a gathering with friends, these meatballs will have everyone eagerly reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
You Must Know About Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
- This showstopping Baked Ground Beef Meatballs delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) while mixing your meatball ingredients. Form the meatballs and arrange them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes until browned, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these meatballs! Swap out breadcrumbs for oats, add grated cheese for richness, or spice things up with chili flakes. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or oven until heated through—about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) works wonders.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
- This professional-quality Baked Ground Beef Meatballs relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Sharing my first experience making Baked Ground Beef Meatballs was unforgettable; my family devoured them within minutes and asked when I’d make them again!
FAQ
What kind of beef should I use for baked ground beef meatballs?
For the best flavor and texture, choose ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. This ensures juicy meatballs that hold together well while providing a rich taste.
Can I freeze baked ground beef meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll maintain quality for up to three months—perfect for quick meals!
How do I know when my meatballs are done?
The internal temperature of your baked ground beef meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check that they are safely cooked through.
What side dishes pair well with baked ground beef meatballs?
Serve these delicious meatballs alongside spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. They also shine as sliders or in sub sandwiches topped with marinara sauce and cheese!
Conclusion for Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
Baked Ground Beef Meatballs are an easy yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion! By following essential cooking processes and adding your flair through customization, you can elevate these simple ingredients into something spectacular. Remember to store leftovers properly and explore various serving options that will delight your family and friends alike! Enjoy creating this culinary masterpiece!
Savory Baked Ground Beef Meatballs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comfort of homemade Baked Ground Beef Meatballs, juicy and packed with flavor. These delightful morsels are easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With a golden brown exterior and a tender interior, each bite is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, promising warmth and satisfaction. Serve them with spaghetti or enjoy on their own as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Wet your hands slightly and form the mixture into meatballs, approximately two tablespoons each. Place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over each meatball for added moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
