Description
These homemade meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and simmered in rich tomato sauce. Perfect for dinner or meal prep, this recipe uses ground beef, Parmesan, herbs, and garlic. Ideal for pasta, subs, or as party appetizers. A must-try classic comfort food!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/2 medium onion, finely grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
2 cups crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs using your hands or a scoop. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides.
4. Add crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce to the skillet. Reduce heat and simmer the meatballs for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot over pasta, in subs, or enjoy as-is.
Notes
For extra tenderness, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
Let meatballs rest for 5 minutes after searing before simmering to keep them juicy.
Use a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop or Oven
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 meatballs
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg