Are you looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further than these 20 scrumptious meatball recipes, each with its own unique flavor profile and spice level. From classic Italian-style meatballs with marinara sauce to spicy Thai turkey meatballs with peanut sauce, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or light and refreshing, there’s a meatball recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. So why settle for boring old dinner when you can have a flavorful fiesta with every bite?
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different cuisines and flavors to bring you the most mouthwatering meatball recipes out there. From savory to sweet, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Savor the authentic flavors of Italy with this timeless recipe for meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these tender morsels are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture 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. Serve hot with marinara sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Savor the rich flavors of Sweden with this classic recipe that combines tender meatballs with a creamy, tangy gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. 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 the meatballs are baking, combine beef broth and heavy cream in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add butter to the gravy and whisk until smooth. Serve warm over baked meatballs.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki
Savor the flavors of Greece with these mouthwatering lamb meatballs served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the Tzatziki:
+ 1 cup Greek yogurt
+ 1/2 cup diced cucumber
+ 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill
+ 2 tablespoons lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. For the Tzatziki, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
7. Serve meatballs hot with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your appetizer game with these sweet and savory Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Meatballs, perfect for snacking or as a main course. A fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and comforting meatball goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers or toothpicks for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each meatball.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, prepare Teriyaki glaze by whisking together soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
6. Remove from oven and brush with Teriyaki glaze during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serve warm with additional Teriyaki glaze for dipping, if desired.
Spicy Thai Turkey Meatballs with Peanut Sauce
Elevate your mealtime with this aromatic and flavorful dish, combining the spicy kick of Thailand with the comforting warmth of homemade meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Peanut sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, cilantro, garlic, ginger, curry paste, egg, salt, and pepper. 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.
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Serve with meatballs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and tender beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Wrap each meatball with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous
Experience the bold flavors of Morocco with this hearty dish that combines juicy meatballs with a flavorful couscous. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add breadcrumbs and mix until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook couscous according to package instructions using water or chicken broth.
7. Serve meatballs over couscous, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Korean Gochujang Meatballs
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with these meatballs infused with gochujang, a sweet and spicy chili paste. This recipe combines the classic meatball with the distinctive taste of gochujang, perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons gochujang
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, breadcrumbs, gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this recipe that combines tender beef, crispy breadcrumbs, and gooey melted mozzarella. Perfect for parties or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 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, egg, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Meatballs with Alfredo Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic parmesan meatballs with the creamy goodness of Alfredo pasta, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Alfredo pasta sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. 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. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
6. In a large skillet, combine Alfredo pasta sauce and cooked meatballs. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes.
7. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Top with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip
Get ready to level up your snack game with this addictive combination of buffalo chicken meatballs and tangy blue cheese dip. Perfect for game day gatherings or as a satisfying appetizer.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Blue Cheese Dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon sour cream
– 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Frank’s RedHot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix cream cheese, blue cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce (if using) in a bowl until smooth.
5. Serve meatballs with blue cheese dip for a match made in heaven!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze
Herbed Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze: A delicious twist on traditional meatballs, these turkey-based bites are packed with fresh herbs and sweetened with a tangy cranberry glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cranberry glaze (see below)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small 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 baking, prepare the cranberry glaze by combining 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the meatballs hot with the warm cranberry glaze spooned over top. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Meatballs
Transform traditional meatballs into a flavor-packed party by adding the bold taste of jalapeños and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup softened cream cheese
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, chopped jalapeños, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape 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 with marinara sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mediterranean Meatballs with Feta and Olives
Elevate your appetizers game with these flavorful meatballs, infused with the Mediterranean’s signature blend of feta, olives, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pitted green olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 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, garlic, olive oil, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape 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 warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Meatballs
A twist on traditional meatballs, these sweet and sour pineapple meatballs are a perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors. Perfect for parties or as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crushed pineapple
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, egg, parsley, and crushed pineapple. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with cooking spray or oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Beef and Pork Meatballs in Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta nights with this hearty recipe featuring beef and pork meatballs smothered in a rich red wine sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. 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 cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add crushed tomatoes and red wine. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and add to the sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot with pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Meatballs with Orzo
Brighten up your dinner routine with these zesty and flavorful meatballs, infused with the freshness of lemon and herbs, served over a bed of creamy orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces orzo
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, salt, and pepper. 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 orzo according to package instructions. Toss with chicken broth and keep warm.
6. Serve meatballs over the creamy orzo and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mexican Chipotle Meatballs with Cilantro Lime Rice
Elevate your mealtime with the bold flavors of Mexico! These chipotle-spiced meatballs are smothered in a tangy tomato sauce and served atop a bed of fresh cilantro lime rice.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the cilantro lime rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, cook rice according to package instructions. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped cilantro and lime juice. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Serve meatballs with tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade) and spoon over cilantro lime rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the nutrients of spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup marinara sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and ricotta cheese.
3. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pesto Chicken Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
Transform a classic comfort food into a light and flavorful meal with this easy-to-make recipe. Pesto chicken meatballs served on top of zucchini noodles create a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 medium zucchini
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with pesto sauce.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Spiralize zucchini noodles according to package instructions.
6. Serve meatballs over zucchini noodles and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner game with these 20 delicious meatball recipes! From classic Italian to spicy Thai, and from BBQ bacon-wrapped to Mediterranean feta-stuffed, there’s something for every taste bud. Try making Swedish meatballs with creamy gravy or Greek lamb meatballs with tzatziki sauce. Or, if you’re in the mood for something sweet and sour, try pineapple meatballs! With a variety of flavors and cuisines represented, these recipes are sure to become new family favorites.
