Description
These baked meatballs combine ground beef and pork with Italian herbs and spices for a flavorful dish. Easy to prepare and versatile, they can be served with marinara sauce over pasta, in a sub, or alongside a salad. Perfect for any meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or your chosen meat mix) with the breadcrumbs.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl.
- Toss in the chopped parsley.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Crack the large egg into the bowl.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if desired. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, warm up your marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes.
- In a serving dish or individual bowls, pour a generous amount of warmed marinara sauce.
- Carefully place the baked meatballs on top of the sauce, adding more sauce if desired.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if using.
Notes
- These meatballs can be served over spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or with crusty bread.
- For a lighter option, serve them with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes