These baked Italian meatballs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer. Made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and Italian herbs, they deliver a satisfying taste in every bite.
The recipe is simple and can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Overview of Baked Italian Meatballs
Baked Italian meatballs are a delightful dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your table.
These meatballs are not only easy to prepare but also offer a satisfying flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with various sides.
Whether served over spaghetti, in a sub, or as a stand-alone appetizer, they are sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to these meatballs lies in the quality of the ingredients.
Ground beef serves as the base, providing a rich and hearty flavor.
Adding breadcrumbs helps to bind the mixture while keeping the meatballs tender. Fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese bring a burst of freshness and depth, while garlic and Italian herbs infuse each bite with aromatic goodness.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated.
The combination of spices, including oregano and basil, enhances the overall taste, making these meatballs a standout choice for any meal.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing baked Italian meatballs is straightforward, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
Start by preheating your oven, which sets the stage for perfectly cooked meatballs.
Mixing the ingredients is a breeze; simply combine them in a bowl until just mixed, ensuring the meatballs remain juicy.
Shaping the meatballs into uniform sizes helps them cook evenly.
Once formed, they are ready to be baked until golden brown, creating a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the marinara sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Once the meatballs are baked, the fun begins with serving.
Nestle them atop a bed of spaghetti, allowing the marinara sauce to envelop each meatball.
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation, making the dish visually appealing.
For a complete meal, consider pairing the meatballs with garlic bread and a glass of red wine.
This combination creates a warm and inviting dining atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Nutrition and Serving Size
These meatballs are not only delicious but also provide a balanced meal option.
With approximately 250 calories per serving, they offer a good source of protein and healthy fats.
Each serving typically contains around 20 grams of protein, making them a satisfying choice for those looking to fuel their day.
The dish serves four, making it an excellent option for sharing with loved ones.
Feel free to adjust the portion sizes based on your needs, whether for a family dinner or a small gathering.
Final Touches for a Memorable Meal
To elevate your dining experience, consider adding a few final touches.
A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the finished dish can enhance the flavors, while a side salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatballs and sauce.
Creating a warm atmosphere with soft lighting and a well-set table can turn a simple meal into a memorable occasion.
With baked Italian meatballs as the centerpiece, your dining experience is sure to be both satisfying and enjoyable.
Easy Baked Italian Meatballs Recipe
These meatballs are baked to perfection, ensuring they are juicy and packed with flavor. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
- Serve: Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g