Dinner

Baked Meatballs – Gourmet And Food

Name: Baked Meatballs – Gourmet And Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 36
Ingredients: 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley; 1 pound lean ground beef; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 large egg, beaten; 2 teaspoons onion granules or onion powder; 3/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese; 2 teaspoons granulated garlic or garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup warm water; 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian herb blend; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1and 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling before serving

Content Editor August 3, 2025

Servings: 36 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When it comes to baked meatballs, your options for pairing are abundant. The right side dishes and accompaniments can elevate this delightful dish, transforming it into a hearty meal. Here are some stellar options to inspire your next dinner:

1. Spaghetti or Zucchini Noodles: A classic pairing, spaghetti is widely adored. You can also innovate by using zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. Either creates a satisfying base to soak up that rich marinara sauce.

2. Garlic Bread: A crunchy slice of garlic bread can be the perfect companion. The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the savory meatballs and marinara like peanut butter and jelly.

3. Salad: A crisp garden salad adds a fresh and crunchy element. The lightness of greens balances the richness of the meatballs, making for the ideal dining experience.

Let’s face it; everyone loves meatballs. They’re a universal comfort food satisfying our taste buds with every tender bite. As a registered dietitian, I can’t help but inject a bit of healthy thinking into our beloved dishes.

That’s where these baked meatballs shine. They bring together quality ingredients with fantastic flavors. Not only do they taste divine, but they also provide room to experiment and elevate your home-cooking game.

You know what’s even better? This recipe is the culmination of numerous kitchen experiments. With plenty of feedback from family and friends, I’m thrilled to share a baked meatball recipe that never fails to impress. So, ready yourself for a culinary adventure!

What Are Baked Meatballs?

Baked meatballs are essentially small, rounded portions made from ground meat and various seasonings. Unlike their frying cousins, baked meatballs are easier to prepare and leave less mess.

They are seasoned to perfection and generally cooked in the oven, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Imagine juicy bites swimming in marinara sauce. Each bite is indulgent yet guilt-free, creating an unforgettable experience at the dinner table.

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s dig deeper into why this baked meatball recipe deserves a spot in your cooking routine.

1. Simple Ingredients:
Only a handful of readily available ingredients are needed. You likely already have seasoned breadcrumbs, lean ground beef, and spices hanging around in your pantry. This recipe simplifies your grocery list, so weeknight cooking feels manageable.

2. Flavor Abundance:
Each bite packs a punch. The combination of garlic powder, onion granules, and Italian seasoning forms a flavor explosion. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds depth that will have your taste buds singing.

3. Versatility:
You can serve these meatballs in various ways. Place them on top of pasta, tuck them into a sub for a meatball sandwich, or serve them on toothpicks as a savory appetizer. The possibilities are endless, and you can cater to different occasions with ease.

4. Healthy Option:
Baking is naturally a healthier cooking method. You’ll consume less fat than if you were to fry. With lean beef in the mix, you also manage the calorie count while getting a good dose of protein. Plus, the absence of excessive oil maintains the flavors without the extra calories.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Gather these ingredients to create your mouthwatering meatballs:

For the Easy Baked Meatballs:

1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (or panko for extra texture)
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 large egg, beaten
2 teaspoons onion granules or onion powder
3/4 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons granulated garlic or garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup warm water
1 and 1/2 teaspoons Italian herb blend

For the Easy Marinara Sauce:

1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional but recommended)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
1 and 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)

Extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling before serving

How to Make This Baked Meatball Recipe

Now that you’ve got the ingredients, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the cooking process.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This initial step is crucial as it sets the stage for baking those meatballs to perfection. A hot oven helps to retain their moisture while creating a golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, onion granules, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, Italian herb blend, and warm water. Get your hands in there and mix everything until just combined. You want it all incorporated, but don’t overwork the mixture. Over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, scoop out a portion of meat mixture (about the size of a golf ball). Form it into a ball shape and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave space between each meatball to ensure they cook evenly. Repeat this process until all the meat mixture is used.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and let the meatballs bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they reach a nice golden brown and the internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). This odor will draw your family into the kitchen.

Step 5: Make the Marinara Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, let’s whip up the marinara sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Allow this to simmer on low for about 15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs are done baking, gently add them into the marinara sauce. Coat them thoroughly and allow them to simmer for a few minutes in the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese when serving.

Tips & Tricks

Choose Lean Meat: Using lean ground beef keeps the meatballs moist without excess fat. You’re more likely to enjoy the flavor without overwhelming grease.
Chill Before Baking: If time allows, chill the formed meatballs in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during baking.

Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to swap in different spices or add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Your palate can guide you to delightful discoveries.
Use a Cookie Scoop: To ensure uniformity, a cookie scoop can create perfectly sized meatballs. Plus, it’s less messy than rolling by hand!
Test for Seasoning: Cooking a small meatball to taste before baking the whole batch is often overlooked but can save time and disappointment later.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of these baked meatballs is not only tasty but holds great nutritional value. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutrition per meatball:

Calories: 150
Protein: 14 g
Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Fiber: 1 g

These nutritious stats help ensure you can enjoy your meal without second-guessing your choices.

How Do You Store the Leftovers?

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you can store them properly to enjoy later. Place the baked meatballs in an airtight container. They’ll last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover them with extra marinara sauce to maintain moisture. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Use a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they can last for up to 3 months.

What Sides Would Complement Baked Meatballs?

When serving baked meatballs, accompanying sides can elevate your meal. Here are suggestions that fit beautifully with this dish:

1. Garlic Bread:
Steep your bread slices in garlic butter and toast them until golden brown. This is always a crowd-pleaser. The buttery, garlicky notes contrast well with the meaty richness of the meatballs.

2. Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted carrots, zucchini, or broccoli drizzled with olive oil and seasoned lightly can add color and nutrition to your plate. The sweetness of roasted vegetables pairs nicely with the savory meatballs.

3. Creamy Polenta:
Creamy polenta makes for a decadent base. The soft texture mimics pasta or rice, and the polenta can absorb the marinara sauce beautifully.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

If you find yourself short on any ingredients, never fear! Here are some substitutions you can make.

1. Meat Alternatives:
Need a healthier swap? Use ground turkey or chicken. They can work wonders while being lower in fat. If plant-based is your focus, try lentils or chickpeas as a meat replacement—just mash them up.

2. Breadcrumbs:
If you have no breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can fill the gap. They’ll still bind well and provide a lovely texture.

3. Cheese Alternatives:
Out of Parmesan? Grated pecorino or even nutritional yeast can add that savory flavor you’re craving. Both will work fabulously in your mixture.

4. Fresh Herbs:
Too late to pick up fresh parsley? Dried Italian herbs can work in a pinch. Just remember, always use less dried than fresh since the flavor is more concentrated.

Conclusion

Baked meatballs represent more than just another recipe; they embody a wholesome, comforting meal that brings people together. Whether you serve them alongside spaghetti, tuck them into a sandwich, or enjoy them as an appetizer, the possibilities are endless.

Each bite bursts with flavor and nostalgia, reminding us of home-cooked meals that bring warmth to even the coldest of days. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embrace the joy of cooking. You’ll love not just the delicious results but also the experience of pulling everyone to the table as the delightful aroma fills your kitchen. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Baked Meatballs – Gourmet And Food

Author: Content Editor Cuisine: Italian Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 36 Calories: 150

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Let’s face it; everyone loves meatballs. They’re a universal comfort food satisfying our taste buds with every tender bite. As a registered dietitian, I can't help but inject a bit of healthy thinking into our beloved dishes.