Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Do you struggle to come up with quick and easy meal ideas that are both delicious and satisfying? Look no further! Frozen meatballs can be a busy cook’s best friend, providing a convenient and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. From classic comfort foods like spaghetti and meatballs, to international-inspired meals like teriyaki meatball stir-fry, there’s a frozen meatball recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different ways to use frozen meatballs, from hearty casseroles to flavorful sauces. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get creative with those frozen meatballs, and discover a whole new world of delicious meal options!
Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
A classic Swedish dish, these meatballs are tender, flavorful, and served in a rich and creamy gravy. Serve them with boiled potatoes or egg noodles for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, flour, egg, milk, onion, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and add to gravy. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until meatballs are fully coated.
7. Serve hot with boiled potatoes or egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti and Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
This beloved Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe makes it easy to bring the flavors of Italy to your table. With tender meatballs, al dente spaghetti, and rich marinara sauce, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Heat marinara sauce over medium heat.
6. Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
Meatball Subs with Melted Cheese
Satisfy your cravings with this comforting recipe that combines juicy meatballs, gooey melted cheese, and soft sub rolls. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 4 sub rolls
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with marinara sauce.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, preheat broiler.
6. Assemble subs by placing meatballs onto the rolls, followed by a slice of mozzarella cheese.
7. Place under broiler for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Meatball Stir-Fry
This sweet and savory teriyaki meatball stir-fry is a quick and easy dinner solution that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Cooked white rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Heat teriyaki sauce in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add cooked meatballs to the wok and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve with white rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball and Potato Skillet
Satisfy your cravings with this hearty one-pan meal that combines flavorful meatballs, tender potatoes, and savory onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form meat mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a plate or tray.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add meatballs to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned on all sides.
6. Add potato cubes to the skillet and stir to combine with onions and meatballs.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
BBQ Meatball Sliders
Get ready to sink your teeth into these mouthwatering sliders packed with tender meatballs smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for game days, picnics, or casual gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen meatballs (about 20-25 pieces)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce leaves
– Thinly sliced red onion
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the frozen meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns by placing them on the same baking sheet as the meatballs for the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
5. In a small saucepan, warm the BBQ sauce over low heat.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing a few meatballs on each bun, followed by a spoonful of warmed BBQ sauce, some lettuce leaves, red onion slices, and pickle slices (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meatball Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory goodness of meatballs with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the peppers by cutting off the tops, removing seeds and membranes, and placing them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
4. Form meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches each) and place one in each pepper cavity.
5. Drizzle the peppers with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
6. Serve the meatball-stuffed peppers with marinara sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball and Rice Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of homemade meatballs with creamy rice and savory tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
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 the meatballs for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the crushed tomatoes with olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. In a separate casserole dish, combine cooked rice, tomato sauce mixture, and baked meatballs. Mix well to combine.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Meatball Pitas with Tzatziki
Experience the authentic flavors of Greece with these tender meatballs wrapped in warm pita bread and served with a refreshing dollop of tzatziki sauce. This hearty and satisfying snack is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
– Chopped parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
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 and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble the pitas by placing 2-3 meatballs per pita, then topping with tzatziki sauce and garnishing with parsley or scallions.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Meatball and Vegetable Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect combination of tender meatballs and a medley of colorful vegetables, all simmered in a rich broth. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. 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. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
5. Add sliced carrots and celery; cook for 5 minutes.
6. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and cooked meatballs to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer soup for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Meatball Pizza with Mozzarella
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic combination of meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought marinara sauce
– 12-15 meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange meatballs on top of the sauce.
5. Place slices of mozzarella cheese over the meatballs.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Meatball and Pasta Bake
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender meatballs with al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with hands or a spoon until just combined. Form into meatballs.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and cooked pasta. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of pasta mixture, followed by a layer of meatballs, and finally a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Garlic Meatballs
Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable Honey Garlic Meatballs, bursting with flavor and sure to please. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, honey, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, 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 (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Meatball and Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these savory Meatball and Cheese Quesadillas, packed with flavor and ease to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese and meatballs.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Meatball and Spinach Lasagna
This hearty lasagna combines juicy meatballs with sautéed spinach and creamy ricotta cheese, all wrapped up in a rich tomato sauce and gooey melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook meatballs until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
6. Layer with meatballs, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat for 2 more layers.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Meatball Dip
A twist on traditional spinach and artichoke dip, this buffalo meatball version adds a bold and spicy kick. Perfect for game-day gatherings or casual get-togethers, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, meatballs, buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
5. Serve with crackers, chips, or veggies. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meatball and Mushroom Stroganoff
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the comforting taste of meatballs with the earthy sweetness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Serve over egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare meatballs by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender and fragrant.
5. Add beef broth, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve meatballs with mushroom stroganoff over egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Meatball and Cornbread Skillet
A hearty and satisfying one-pot meal that combines juicy meatballs with a crispy cornbread crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano in a bowl. Form into meatballs.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels and cook until tender.
4. Arrange meatballs on top of the corn.
5. Mix cornbread mix with heavy cream in a separate bowl. Pour over the meatballs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball and Eggplant Parmesan
A classic Italian-American dish that combines tender meatballs with flavorful eggplant slices, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Mozzarella cheese slices, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare meatballs according to your favorite recipe or use store-bought.
3. In a large skillet, sauté eggplant and onion until tender. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer over low heat.
5. Assemble the dish by layering meatballs, eggplant slices, and tomato sauce in a baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Meatball and Broccoli Alfredo
This hearty pasta dish combines tender meatballs with crispy broccoli florets, all smothered in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese to form meatballs. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta, meatballs, and Alfredo sauce (made by whisking together heavy cream and cheddar cheese). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your meal prep routine with these 20 delicious frozen meatball recipes! From classic spaghetti and meatballs to innovative twists like teriyaki meatball stir-fry and meatball quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the convenience of having a tasty meal at your fingertips!
