Beef meatballs are a versatile and flavorful dish that can be served with pasta, in sandwiches, or as a party appetizer. These meatballs are tender, juicy, and seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices to make them truly delicious. Whether baked or fried, they’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying, if pan-frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the meatball mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to soften. Add the ground beef, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture.
- Form the meatballs:
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (or larger, depending on your preference). You should get about 16-20 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Cooking method – choose one:
To bake the meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the meatballs on the sheet, spaced evenly apart.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).
To pan-fry the meatballs:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, serve the meatballs with your favorite sauce, such as marinara, over pasta, or as an appetizer with a dipping sauce. You can also use them in sandwiches or as a topping for pizza.
These beef meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a variety of dishes, making them a family favorite!