What if you could enjoy authentic Italian meatballs, juicy and flavorful, without the hassle of frying or spending hours in the kitchen? These Easy Italian Baked Meatballs are your answer! Crafted with ground beef, Parmesan, and a blend of flavorful spices, these meatballs are oven-baked and table-ready in just 30 minutes. This method not only saves time but also ensures a healthier meal without compromising on taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in just 30 minutes.
- Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, reducing excess oil.
- Versatile: Perfect with pasta, in subs, or as appetizers.
- Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for busy nights.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup lukewarm water
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
How to Make Easy Italian Baked Meatballs
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, egg, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Gradually add lukewarm water, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
- Form Meatballs: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, shape the mixture into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
- Prepare Marinara Sauce: While meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until it releases its aroma. Add crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine and Serve: Once meatballs are done, add them to the marinara sauce, stirring to coat. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Uniform Size: Use a scoop for evenly sized meatballs, ensuring even cooking.
- Moisture Matters: The water keeps meatballs moist; adjust as needed for consistency.
- Rest Before Baking: Let formed meatballs rest for a few minutes to help them hold their shape.
Substitutions and Variations
- Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork.
- Cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of Parmesan.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or additional red pepper flakes for heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if the meatballs are fully cooked? Meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are no longer pink inside.
Can I freeze these meatballs? Yes! After baking, let them cool completely. After freezing, move the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. They can be reheated directly from frozen in the oven or simmered in sauce.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely. Prepare and shape the meatballs, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Store the cooked meatballs in the freezer for up to three months.
- Reheating: Warm them up in the oven or let them simmer in your favorite sauce until thoroughly heated.
Conclusion
These Easy Italian Baked Meatballs are the perfect solution for both busy weeknights and special meals. Quick to prepare, healthier than fried versions, and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try them today and savor the ease and flavor in every bite!
Easy Italian Baked Meatballs -Ready in Under 30 Minutes!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 36 meatballs (3 dozen) 1x
Description
Easy Italian Baked Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes! Baked for a healthier twist and paired with a quick homemade marinara sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, pasta dishes, or hearty subs. Try them today!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
1½ tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp salt
1 large egg
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup breadcrumbs
½ cup lukewarm water
For the Marinara Sauce:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
½ tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1½ tsp Italian seasoning
Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, egg, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Gradually add lukewarm water, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
- Form Meatballs: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, shape the mixture into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
- Prepare Marinara Sauce: While meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until it releases its aroma. Add crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine and Serve: Once meatballs are done, add them to the marinara sauce, stirring to coat. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
Freeze extras in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
Swap beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Gluten-free breadcrumbs work great for dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: ITALIAN
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 14g