Meatballs – the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re a meat-and-potatoes kind of person or a fan of international flavors, there’s a meatball recipe out there for everyone. And when it comes to classic meatball recipes, few can rival the expertise of Food Network. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 savory meatball recipes from Food Network classics, featuring a diverse range of flavors and cuisines. From classic Italian meatballs with marinara sauce to spicy Thai turkey meatballs with peanut sauce, there’s something for every taste bud.
So without further ado, let’s dive into our countdown of the best meatball recipes from Food Network. Which ones will make your list?
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce: A timeless favorite that’s perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or just as a snack on its own. This recipe yields tender, flavorful meatballs smothered in a rich and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until just combined.
- Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Experience the flavors of Sweden with this hearty and comforting dish featuring tender meatballs smothered in a rich and creamy gravy. Serve with egg noodles, potatoes, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– Butter or oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, melt butter or heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
7. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
8. Serve the meatballs with creamy gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Thai Turkey Meatballs with Peanut Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this unique twist on traditional meatballs, featuring tender turkey and a creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, panko, garlic, ginger, curry paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. In a small saucepan, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, honey, and lime juice. Whisk until smooth.
6. Serve meatballs with peanut sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with these tender lamb meatballs, served in a refreshing tzatziki sauce. This classic combination is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the tzatziki:
+ 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
+ 1 cup Greek yogurt
+ 1/2 cup sour cream
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the tzatziki by combining all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve lamb meatballs with tzatziki sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Glazed Meatballs with Cheddar Grits
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with these tender meatballs smothered in a tangy BBQ glaze, served atop creamy cheddar grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cheddar grits
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano in a bowl until just combined. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
3. Bake meatballs for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While meatballs are baking, cook grits according to package instructions with butter, salt, and pepper.
5. In a small saucepan, heat BBQ glaze over medium-low heat until warmed through.
6. Serve meatballs atop cheddar grits and spoon warm BBQ glaze over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Pineapple
Elevate your appetizers with these sweet and savory Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs infused with the tropical flavors of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat 1/4 cup Teriyaki sauce in a pan over medium-high heat.
6. Add pineapple chunks to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
7. Serve meatballs with pineapple and garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this hearty dish, where tender meatballs are served atop a bed of fluffy couscous and infused with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook couscous according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
6. Serve meatballs atop couscous and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip
Get ready to take your game-day gatherings or casual dinner parties to the next level with these addictive Buffalo Chicken Meatballs paired with a tangy Blue Cheese Dip.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Blue Cheese Dip:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients until just combined. Form into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
3. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the meatballs are baking, mix Blue Cheese Dip ingredients until smooth.
5. Serve warm meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Korean Gochujang Meatballs with Rice
This recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang, a Korean chili paste, with tender meatballs and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp gochujang
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, gochujang, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with cooked white rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs with Bourbon Glaze
Elevate your party with these savory meatballs wrapped in crispy bacon and smothered in a rich bourbon glaze. Perfect for game day gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/4 cup bourbon
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
3. Shape into meatballs and wrap each with a slice of bacon.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small saucepan, combine bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Serve the meatballs with the bourbon glaze spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs with Tomato Basil Sauce
This hearty and flavorful recipe combines the comforting taste of meatballs with the nutritional benefits of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich tomato basil sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato basil sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine lentils, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned on the outside.
6. Serve hot with tomato basil sauce spooned over the top, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Meatballs with Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this mouthwatering combination of homemade meatballs and rich Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz Alfredo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook Alfredo pasta according to package instructions.
6. In a separate saucepan, combine marinara sauce and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve with hot Alfredo pasta and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Meatballs with Mango Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this unique fusion of sweet and spicy meatballs, served with a tangy mango salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the mango salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, jerk seasoning, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, onion, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve the meatballs hot with the mango salsa spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
French Onion Soup Meatballs with Gruyère
Elevate your meatball game with the rich flavors of French onion soup and the creaminess of Gruyère cheese. This recipe combines tender beef meatballs with a savory onion sauce and melted Gruyère for an unforgettable appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Gruyère, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
7. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until liquid is almost completely reduced.
8. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
9. Serve meatballs with warm onion sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Chipotle Meatballs in Adobo Sauce
This recipe combines the savory flavor of meatballs with the bold, smoky heat of chipotle peppers and the tanginess of adobo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Adobo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat adobo sauce in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and add to the adobo sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to coat the meatballs evenly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Sriracha Meatballs with Sesame Seeds
A sweet and spicy twist on classic meatballs, these bite-sized treats combine the warmth of honey and sriracha sauce with the crunch of sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pesto Turkey Meatballs with Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with these flavorful Pesto Turkey Meatballs, served with a classic spaghetti dish. A perfect combination of tender meat and creamy pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated mozzarella cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Toss with pesto sauce and top with baked meatballs. Serve with grated mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Butter Chicken Meatballs with Naan
Savor the flavors of India with this delectable recipe that combines tender meatballs, rich butter chicken sauce, and crispy naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter chicken sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz naan bread
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garam masala, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into small balls and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While meatballs are baking, warm butter chicken sauce according to package instructions.
5. Split naan bread in half and brush with melted butter.
6. Grill naan bread for 2-3 minutes on each side or until crispy.
7. Serve meatballs with warmed butter chicken sauce and toasted naan bread. Garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Meatballs with Feta and Olives
Add a touch of Mediterranean flair to your meal with these flavorful meatballs, infused with the tanginess of feta cheese and the brininess of olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pitted green olives
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, olives, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Stuffed Cheese-Filled Meatballs in Tomato Broth
Elevate your meatball game with this creamy twist! These bite-sized treats are packed with melted mozzarella and parmesan, served in a rich tomato broth that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups tomato broth (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, mozzarella, parmesan, and olive oil. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot in tomato broth, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meatball game with these 20 savory recipes from Food Network classics! From classic Italian-style meatballs served with marinara sauce, to spicy Thai turkey meatballs with peanut sauce, and everything in between. Discover mouth-watering options like Greek lamb meatballs with tzatziki, BBQ-glazed meatballs with cheddar grits, and more. Whether you’re a meatball newbie or seasoned pro, this collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and indulge in the rich flavors of these delicious meatball recipes!
