There is something wonderfully comforting about homemade meatballs, and this Simple Homemade Meatballs Recipe hits all the right notes with its perfect balance of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation. Using a mix of ground beef and chicken, fresh herbs, and pantry staples, these meatballs come out juicy, tender, and packed with that classic savory taste. Whether you’re looking to impress family at dinner or need a reliable go-to meal for busy nights, this recipe is guaranteed to warm hearts and satisfy appetites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to making these meatballs, the magic is in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from binding to flavor, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying.
- Ground Beef and Ground Chicken (1 pound): The combo delivers great flavor and a tender texture that is not too heavy.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Helps hold the meatballs together and adds a bit of softness.
- Egg (1 large): Acts as a natural glue to keep the mixture intact while baking.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Gives a wonderful aromatic pop that enhances the meat.
- Onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and moisture to the meatballs.
- Parsley (2 tablespoons, freshly chopped): Brings freshness and a lovely green color to balance the richness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just a hint of warmth and spice.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used to brown the meatballs perfectly before baking.
How to Make Simple Homemade Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Meat
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures the oven is hot and ready to finish the meatballs with a beautiful bake. Meanwhile, place your ground beef and chicken together in a large mixing bowl—this combination will create a tender yet flavorful base.
Step 2: Combine the Binding Ingredients
To your meat, add the breadcrumbs which help hold everything together. Crack the egg into a separate bowl and lightly beat it before incorporating—this helps evenly distribute the binding properties and keeps your meatballs from falling apart.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Seasonings
Next, fold in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to introduce a rich depth of flavor and natural moisture. Sprinkle in the chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper for that fresh, herby brightness and balanced seasoning. Gently mix everything to evenly combine without overworking the meat.
Step 4: Shape and Brown the Meatballs
Form the mixture into uniform balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter—the perfect size for even cooking. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then carefully add the meatballs. Sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and beautifully caramelized. This step locks in juices and creates a delicious crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the browned meatballs onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baking finishes the cooking gently, ensuring juicy meatballs without drying them out.
Step 6: Let Them Rest
Once out of the oven, allow your meatballs to rest for a few minutes. This little wait helps the juices redistribute, making each bite wonderfully moist and flavorful.
How to Serve Simple Homemade Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese take these meatballs to the next level. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a pop of color and subtle spice that elevates the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
Meatballs truly shine when paired with classic sides. Serve them atop spaghetti with your favorite marinara sauce for an Italian night, or alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad offer a fresh contrast and balance the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try sliders with soft rolls and melted mozzarella for a party-friendly bite, or stuff the meatballs into pita bread with tzatziki and cucumber for a Mediterranean twist. You can also skewer them with colorful bell peppers and onions for a fun kabob style experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store your meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh so you can enjoy them again without losing any taste or texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Lay meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months, perfect for quick meals anytime.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or warm in a simmering sauce on the stove. This method keeps them moist and tender rather than tough, bringing back that fresh-cooked deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I use just one type of meat?
Absolutely! While the Simple Homemade Meatballs Recipe combines beef and chicken for balance, you can use all beef, all chicken, turkey, or even pork depending on your preference. Each will yield slightly different textures and flavors but still delicious results.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The best way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. They should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safely cooked through. If you don’t have one, cutting into a meatball to check for no pink inside is a good visual cue.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This keeps the binding effect intact without compromising flavor or texture.
Is it necessary to sear the meatballs first?
Searing adds great flavor and texture by browning the outside, but if you’re short on time, you can bake them directly. Just note that the crust may not be as crispy or caramelized.
What sauces pair well with these meatballs?
Think marinara, creamy Alfredo, tangy barbecue, or even a spicy arrabbiata. The Simple Homemade Meatballs Recipe is a versatile base that complements a wide variety of sauces, letting you customize the meal to your taste and occasion.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Homemade Meatballs Recipe is a true winner for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals without fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and clear steps, you can create a dish that feels special and satisfying every time. So grab your skillet, heat that oven, and dive into a batch of these meatballs that are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Print
Simple Homemade Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These simple homemade meatballs combine ground beef and chicken for a balanced flavor. Coated with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, they are first seared in olive oil and then baked to juicy perfection, making a versatile dish perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a savory snack.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 pound Ground Beef and Ground Chicken (Combination for balanced flavor)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Helps bind the meatballs)
- 1 large Egg (Acts as a binding agent)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced for flavor)
- 1/4 cup Onion (Finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Parsley (Freshly chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (To taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (To taste)
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For sautéing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs after searing.
- Combine Meat: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef and chicken to create the base of the meatballs.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Incorporate the 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs into the meat mixture to help the meatballs hold together.
- Beat and Add Egg: Crack the egg into a separate bowl, beat it lightly, then add it to the meat mixture as a binder.
- Add Aromatics: Mix in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to infuse the meatballs with flavor.
- Season and Herb: Add freshly chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper to the bowl and mix all ingredients gently but thoroughly.
- Shape Meatballs: Form the meat mixture into uniform balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter for even cooking.
- Sear Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until browned to lock in flavor.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the browned meatballs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate clean-up.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring they are cooked through.
- Rest: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Serve the meatballs with your favorite sauce, over pasta, or inside a sandwich for a hearty meal.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
- To make meatballs more tender, do not overmix the meat mixture.
- You can substitute ground poultry with all beef or all chicken based on preference.
- Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serving suggestions include tomato sauce, marinara, or a creamy mushroom sauce for variation.
