Name: Baked Italian Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1/4 cup milk; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling; Marinara sauce for serving

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Delicious baked Italian meatballs served on a wooden platter

The Perfect Comfort Food: Baked Italian Meatballs

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of homemade meatballs, especially when they’ve been baked to perfection and served with a luscious marinara sauce.

These Baked Italian Meatballs are easy to whip up and full of flavor, making them the perfect weeknight dinner or party snack.

With just the right amount of herbs and spices, they’re a delightful reminder of cozy Italian dinners, and they pair beautifully with pasta or even on their own as a tasty appetizer.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 320
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg

Why I Love This Baked Italian Meatballs

These Baked Italian Meatballs have a special place in my heart because they remind me of family gatherings where we would cook and share meals together.

The combination of garlic and Italian seasoning fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that makes you eager to dig in.

Plus, they’re so straightforward to make—perfect for beginners or those busy weeknights when you just want something delicious without too much fuss.

Whether served atop pasta, in a sub, or as a standalone bite-sized treat, they’re always a hit!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef,
1/2 cup breadcrumbs,
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese,
1/4 cup chopped parsley,
1/4 cup milk,
1 egg,
2 cloves garlic, minced,
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, Salt and pepper to taste,
Olive oil for drizzling, Marinara sauce for serving

How to Make Baked Italian Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your delicious meatballs.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, milk, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined, but don’t overmix!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Scoop out portions of the meat mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 4: Drizzle with Olive Oil

Gently drizzle olive oil over the meatballs to give them a nice golden color as they bake. This also helps them stay moist and adds flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the baking tray to the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned. You can check for doneness by cutting one open to see if there’s no pink inside.

Step 6: Serve

Once finished, remove the meatballs from the oven and serve them hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling on top. Enjoy!

Ingredients for meatballs arranged in a bowl, including ground meat, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices.

A person holding a meatball in their hand, showcasing the food item clearly against a neutral background.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture if you like a little heat.
Serve the meatballs over spaghetti or in a toasted sub with melted cheese for a hearty meal.
If you want to make them even more nutritious, you can mix in some finely chopped spinach or zucchini into the meat mixture.

Delicious Variations

Swedish Meatballs: Deliciously rich and served with a creamy sauce.
BBQ Meatballs: Add barbecue sauce for a sweet, smoky twist!
Turkey Meatballs: A lighter alternative using ground turkey instead of beef.
Veggie Meatballs: Made with lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian option packed with flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Italian Meatballs

Serve these meatballs warm right after baking, accompanied by marinara sauce for dipping. They make a fantastic appetizer at parties or a comforting dinner paired with spaghetti and a green salad.

For a complete Italian feast, consider complimenting them with a side of garlic bread and a glass of red wine. The savory flavors of the meatballs perfectly balance a crisp salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, place the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag.

They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until heated through.

Helpful Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well and provides a lighter option!
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Cut one open; it should be fully cooked through with no pink inside.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make them in advance and reheat them before serving.
What’s the best way to serve these meatballs?
They are great with marinara sauce, over pasta, or in a sub sandwich!
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, they freeze well! Just make sure they are cool before storing them in an airtight container.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Baked Italian Meatballs! They are sure to bring comfort and smiles to your dining table.