Craving a hearty and comforting meal? These savory Italian baked meatballs are exactly what you need. They’re juicy, flavorful, and perfect for serving over pasta or enjoying in a sub sandwich. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
What makes these meatballs truly special is the blend of herbs and spices that elevates their taste. Each bite bursts with a rich, meaty flavor that pairs perfectly with your favorite marinara sauce. Plus, baking them means you can skip the frying hassle and enjoy a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
Overview of Italian Baked Meatballs
Italian baked meatballs are a comforting classic that fit perfectly into any meal plan. Their tender texture combined with a savory blend of spices makes them a favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings.
The meatballs are typically made from a mix of ground beef and Italian seasonings, resulting in a rich and hearty flavor. The baking method not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows them to retain their juiciness. Pairing them with marinara sauce and spaghetti creates a fulfilling dish that is sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients for Success
To achieve the perfect meatball, using quality ingredients is essential. Ground beef provides the base, but it’s the additional elements that truly elevate the dish.
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while breadcrumbs help bind the mixture together. Seasonings like garlic powder and oregano infuse the meatballs with classic Italian flavor, ensuring that every bite is satisfying.
The Baking Process
Baking meatballs is a straightforward technique that results in deliciously golden brown spheres. Start by preheating your oven, which ensures that the meatballs cook evenly.
Once the mixture is combined, forming them into uniform sizes will help them cook at the same rate. Keeping them roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter is ideal. This attention to detail during preparation leads to a more enjoyable eating experience.
Serving Suggestions
Once your meatballs are baked to perfection, the serving options are plentiful. A classic presentation involves placing them atop a bed of spaghetti, generously smothered in marinara sauce.
For a different take, consider serving them in a hoagie roll, turning them into a delightful meatball sub. This versatility makes them suitable for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
Nutrition Information
These savory meatballs are not just delicious; they also provide a balanced option for your meal. Each serving contains around 300 calories, making them a hearty choice without being overly indulgent.
With a good amount of protein from the meat and a blend of carbohydrates from the breadcrumbs, they are sure to keep you satisfied. Pairing them with a fresh salad can enhance the meal’s nutritional value even further.
The Final Touch: Garnishes and Sides
To elevate your dish to the next level, consider garnishing your meatballs with freshly chopped parsley. This simple addition not only enhances the presentation but also adds a touch of freshness.
Accompany your meal with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added richness. Fresh basil leaves can also complement the flavor profile beautifully, adding a herbal note that ties the dish together.
Delicious Baked Meatballs Recipe
These baked meatballs are a delightful combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and Italian seasonings. They’re golden brown on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Serve them with spaghetti for a classic dish or on a hoagie roll for an easy meatball sub.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 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 the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until just combined.
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve: Heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan and serve the meatballs with the sauce over pasta or in a sandwich.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g