Are you a meatball lover looking for some inspiration to elevate your meal game? Look no further! In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 delicious meatball recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. From classic Italian dishes to international twists and vegetarian options, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking to mix things up with new flavors and ingredients, these mouthwatering meatballs are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get your meatball on, and indulge in a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more!
Stay tuned for our countdown of the top 20 delicious meatball recipes easy to make…
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce: A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. 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. While the meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
6. Serve the meatballs with warm marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of Sweden with this classic meatball recipe, served in a creamy gravy that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a large bowl. 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. While the meatballs are baking, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the gravy has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the meatballs with the creamy gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Meatballs with Spinach and Feta
Elevate your meatball game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines tender turkey, wilted spinach, and crumbly feta cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, spinach, feta, onion, garlic, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
BBQ Glazed Meatballs with Pineapple
Add a tropical twist to classic meatballs with this unique recipe that combines the richness of BBQ sauce with the sweetness of pineapple. Perfect for your next backyard gathering or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pineapple chunks for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While meatballs are baking, combine BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
7. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with BBQ glaze.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Garnish with pineapple chunks and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Thai Meatballs with Peanut Sauce
Spicy Thai Meatballs with Peanut Sauce: A flavorful fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and Italian-style meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Peanut Sauce (see below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Form into 20-25 meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine Peanut Sauce ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth.
6. Serve meatballs with warm Peanut Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Greece in a simple and satisfying dish. Juicy lamb meatballs are served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, and olive oil. 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. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve meatballs hot with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Baked Parmesan Meatballs with Garlic Butter
Elevate your appetizer game with these mouthwatering baked meatballs smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. 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. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with garlic butter. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs
A sweet and savory twist on classic meatballs, these Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are perfect for a weeknight dinner or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 20-25 meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs in slow cooker. Pour chicken broth over the top.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with your favorite pasta, rice, or as an appetizer.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Rice
Elevate your mealtime with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Chicken Meatball recipe, served over a bed of fluffy rice. This Asian-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 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 chicken, breadcrumbs, teriyaki sauce, egg, scallions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon 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. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Serve over cooked white rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip
Satisfy your cravings with these spicy and savory meatballs, served with a creamy blue cheese dip that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for game day gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the blue cheese dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Chopped chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and parsley. 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 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, mix together cream cheese, blue cheese crumbles, and sour cream in a small bowl.
6. Serve meatballs hot with blue cheese dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (meatballs), 10-15 minutes (blue cheese dip)
Moroccan Meatballs with Couscous
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with these tender and aromatic meatballs, served atop a bed of fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Couscous for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, 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. Serve hot over couscous.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mexican Meatballs in Chipotle Sauce
Elevate your taco game with these flavorful Mexican meatballs smothered in a rich chipotle sauce, perfect for serving at your next fiesta or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, 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. In a saucepan, combine diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Korean Gochujang Meatballs
These sweet and spicy meatballs are infused with the bold flavors of Korean gochujang, perfect for a flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, scallions, garlic, gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape into small meatballs (about 1-inch diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Simplify your pasta game with this quick and satisfying recipe that combines the classic Italian duo of spaghetti and meatballs into one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 12 ounces spaghetti
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined and lightly toasted.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, and olive oil. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
5. Add the spaghetti to the skillet, stirring to coat with the meatball and tomato sauce.
6. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella
Elevate your meatball game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines juicy beef and pork with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
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
– 8-10 meatball-sized mozzarella balls (about 1 inch in diameter)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions and shape each portion into a meatball. Make a small indentation in the center of each meatball and place a mozzarella ball inside.
4. Place the stuffed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Meatballs with Orzo
Elevate your meatball game with this bright and flavorful recipe, featuring the tanginess of lemon and the freshness of herbs. Serve over a bed of creamy orzo for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Toss with chicken broth and lemon juice.
7. Serve the meatballs over the orzo mixture.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian twist on traditional meatballs, these lentil-based bites are packed with nutritious goodness and served in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Mix well until a dough forms. Shape into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. While the meatballs are baking, heat the tomato sauce over medium heat.
7. Serve the meatballs in the tomato sauce and garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Air Fryer Meatballs with Marinara Dip
Discover the perfect combination of crispy meatballs and creamy marinara dip, all made possible in the convenience of your Air Fryer. This recipe is a twist on the classic Italian appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. 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 plate or tray.
4. Cook the meatballs in the Air Fryer for 6-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a separate bowl.
6. Serve cooked meatballs with warm marinara dip and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pesto Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a fresh twist, using zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta. The result is a light and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, pesto sauce, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. 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. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchini and cook according to package instructions.
6. Serve meatballs over zucchini noodles, drizzled with additional pesto sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Meatballs with Quinoa
Savor the flavor of these tender meatballs made with ground turkey and quinoa, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with savory meatballs, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Your favorite marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked quinoa, gluten-free breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. 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. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with marinara sauce and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these mouth-watering meatball recipes! From classic Italian-style meatballs with marinara sauce, to spicy Thai-inspired options with peanut sauce, and even vegetarian lentil meatballs with tomato sauce, there’s something for everyone. Try making Swedish meatballs with creamy gravy, or indulge in BBQ glazed meatballs with pineapple. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and savory or bold and spicy, this collection of 20 delicious meatball recipes has got you covered.
