Tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned—this Easy Meatball Recipe is your go-to for a hearty homemade dinner that’s both comforting and wildly flavorful. Whether you’re serving it over a bed of spaghetti or stuffing them into a crusty sub roll, these meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser.

They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and simmered in a rich tomato sauce that tastes like it cooked all day. Even better? They’re made with simple ingredients and no fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make perfect meatballs every time, you need the right tools. Here’s what makes a difference:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large one to combine the meat mixture evenly without overworking it, which helps keep the meatballs tender.
Baking Sheet or Oven-Safe Skillet: Essential for either baking or searing your meatballs evenly without crowding them. A cast iron skillet is perfect if you’re finishing them in the oven.
Cookie Scoop or Ice Cream Scoop: Keeps your meatballs the same size so they cook evenly.

Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Handy for transferring meatballs from pan to sauce without breaking them.
Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven: If you’re simmering your meatballs in sauce, this will help distribute heat evenly and avoid burning.

Having these tools ready will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients for the Easy Meatball Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in building flavor and texture:

Ground Beef: The main base for your meatballs, offering richness and structure.
Breadcrumbs: They act as a binder and help keep the meatballs moist.

Egg: Holds everything together and adds richness.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth, saltiness, and that nutty flavor we love in Italian dishes.
Minced Garlic: Brings bold, savory notes.

Chopped Parsley: Adds freshness and color.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and adds moisture.

Olive Oil: Used for searing or baking to create a golden crust.
Crushed Tomatoes or Marinara Sauce: The base for simmering the meatballs, infusing them with robust flavor.

How To Make the Easy Meatball Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and milk. Use your hands or a fork to gently mix everything together—don’t overwork the meat.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form evenly sized meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them on a tray or plate.

Step 3: Sear or Bake

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs on all sides until browned. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for about 15–18 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Step 4: Simmer in Sauce

Transfer meatballs to a saucepan with your favorite marinara or crushed tomato sauce. Simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes to infuse flavor and keep them juicy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve over spaghetti, in a sub roll, or on their own with extra Parmesan and parsley sprinkled on top.

How to Serve and Store These Easy Meatballs

These meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pile them high on spaghetti for a classic dinner, layer them into toasted sub rolls with melty mozzarella for a mouthwatering sandwich, or serve them solo with a fresh side salad and garlic bread. You can even add them to a cheesy casserole or slice them up for pizza toppings!

For storing, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, spread them on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat in sauce over the stove or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to include both breadcrumbs and an egg in your mixture. They act as binders to help hold the shape.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or a pork-beef blend works just as well. Just watch your cooking time as leaner meats can dry out more easily.

Is it better to bake or pan-fry meatballs?

Both methods work! Baking is more hands-off and less messy. Pan-frying adds a crispier crust but requires more attention. Pick based on your preference and schedule.

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! Form them ahead and keep them in the fridge for a day or freeze them raw. They cook beautifully from frozen, just add a few extra minutes.

What sauce pairs best?

Classic marinara is a favorite, but they’re also amazing in creamy Alfredo, spicy arrabbiata, or even Swedish-style gravy.

How do I know when meatballs are done?

They should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Cut one open to check—it should not be pink inside.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re all about easy, satisfying meals like these Easy Meatballs, then you’ll love these other comforting classics from Life With Olivia:

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a crispy, cheesy indulgence.
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells when you want a vegetarian pasta packed with flavor.

Taco Ranch Bites if you’re looking for something bold and bite-sized.
Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes for a kid-friendly dinner or snack.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you want comfort food in casserole form.

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And I’d love to hear how your meatballs turned out. Did you go for pan-seared or oven-baked? Did you add your own twist with different seasonings or cheeses?

Let’s keep the delicious conversation going in the comments—questions and personal touches are always welcome!

Easy Meatball Recipe

Author: Olivia McKenney

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Description

These Easy Meatballs are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re simmered in a savory tomato sauce that makes them taste like they’ve been cooking all day. Serve over spaghetti, in a sub, or straight from the pan—this dish is a true comfort classic.