Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe

Name: Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy homemade meatballs with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty meal prep.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:16:10.753Z

Meatballs are a classic comfort food that can be made in a variety of ways. This oven-baked version is not only easier to prepare but also healthier than frying. Serve them with pasta, in a sub, or on their own with your favorite dipping sauce!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in under 35 minutes
Juicy and flavorful with a perfect texture
Versatile for any meal or occasion

      

The Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a wholesome dinner can feel overwhelming. This Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe is designed for those hectic evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With only a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time. Serve these meatballs with pasta, in a sub, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal that your family will love.

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its simplicity but also in its adaptability. You can easily customize the meatballs to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you prefer lean turkey, ground chicken, or a plant-based alternative, the method remains the same. Just swap out the protein and enjoy a delightful dish that feels personal to you.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To achieve the ideal meatball texture, be sure not to overmix your ingredients. Mixing until just combined will help keep your meatballs tender and juicy. Another helpful tip is to use a cookie scoop or your hands to ensure uniform size; this ensures even cooking and a visually appealing presentation on the plate.

If you're looking to add an extra flavor boost, consider incorporating additional spices or herbs into the mixture. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat, while fresh basil or oregano can enhance the Italian flavors. Don't hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can fit into a variety of meals. Serve them over your favorite pasta with marinara sauce for a classic spaghetti and meatballs dish. Or, place them in a crusty hoagie roll, topped with melted cheese and marinara for a delicious meatball sub. For a lighter option, pair them with steamed vegetables and a side of quinoa or rice for a balanced meal.

Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer freshness. This makes them a fantastic meal prep option, allowing you to whip up quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave, and you'll have a homemade meal ready in minutes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your meatballs:

Meatball Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious meatballs:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined.

Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until cooked through and browned on the outside.

Enjoy your meatballs with your favorite sauce and sides!

Nutritional Benefits

These oven-baked meatballs not only taste great but also offer nutritional benefits. Ground beef is a rich source of protein, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and repair. The added parsley not only enhances flavor but also contributes vitamins A, C, and K, promoting overall health.

By incorporating whole-grain breadcrumbs, you can increase the fiber content of the meatballs, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. This recipe allows you to enjoy comfort food while still being mindful of your nutritional intake.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover meatballs, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them perfect for meal prep or quick lunches. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them; they can last up to three months in the freezer.

When it comes time to reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to prevent them from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question is whether you can make these meatballs ahead of time. Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture, form them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them an excellent option for parties or gatherings where you want to impress guests with minimal day-of preparation.

Another frequently asked question pertains to adjusting the recipe for dietary restrictions. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Similarly, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative that still delivers on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will make the meatballs lighter.

→ How can I store leftover meatballs?

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

→ What should I serve with meatballs?

Meatballs pair well with pasta, rice, or as a filling for sandwiches.