Name: Easy Homemade Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 cups marinara sauce

Hey y’all! Nothing beats the comfort and mouthwatering taste of Easy Homemade Meatballs—whether you’re serving them over spaghetti, as appetizers, or stuffed in a sub. These meatballs are juicy, packed with savory goodness, and perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or your next family gathering. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Meatballs Recipe

Bursting with savory flavor thanks to garlic, Italian herbs, and Parmesan cheese.
Ready in just 30 minutes from prep to plate—perfect for busy evenings!
Simple ingredients you’ll likely already have in your pantry.
Easily customizable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or leaner options.
Great for freezing, meal prepping, or crowd-pleasing party snacks.

Easy Homemade Meatballs Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil (for baking or pan-frying)
Optional: 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for spice

Directions: How to Make Easy Homemade Meatballs

Step 1: Prep and Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs and milk. Let sit for 2 minutes to moisten.
Add ground beef, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper, plus red pepper flakes if using. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing for tender meatballs.

Step 2: Form and Arrange the Meatballs

Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (~1 to 1.25 inches) and place on prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Brush or mist the meatballs with olive oil. Bake in preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, until cooked through and golden.
(Optional) For extra browning, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes.

Notes & Helpful Tips for Easy Homemade Meatballs

Don’t overmix the meat for the most tender texture—just until combined. Learn why here.
For even cooking, make sure the meatballs are the same size.
Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months for easy dinners.

Easy Homemade Meatballs Variations

Turkey Meatballs: Swap beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
Cheesy Stuffed: Insert a small mozzarella cube inside each meatball before baking.
Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp hot sauce and extra red pepper flakes to the mix.

Equipment You’ll Need for Easy Homemade Meatballs

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet (or large skillet for pan-frying)
Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Measuring cups/spoons
Small cookie scoop (optional, but helps with uniformity)

How to Store Easy Homemade Meatballs

Let meatballs cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Reheat in sauce, microwave, or oven until hot throughout. Check proper freezing methods here.

Serving Ideas & Pairings for Easy Homemade Meatballs

Serve with classic marinara over spaghetti for a timeless main dish.
Try meatballs in crusty sub rolls with melted mozzarella for an epic meatball sandwich.
Pair with fluffy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or zoodles for a low-carb option.

Pro Tips for the Best Easy Homemade Meatballs

Use a mix of ground beef and pork for even juicier, more flavorful meatballs.
Chilling meatballs for 10-15 minutes before baking helps them keep their shape.
Want even browning? Sear meatballs in a pan before finishing in the oven. See expert tips here.

Easy Homemade Meatballs FAQ

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?: Absolutely! Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Can I cook these meatballs on the stovetop?: Yes! Simply heat a large skillet with oil over medium heat and cook, turning occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until browned and cooked through.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?: They should be nicely browned and register 165°F (74°C) in the center when tested with a meat thermometer.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18–20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes