Easy Italian Baked Meatballs

Last updated on June 2, 2025

If you’re searching for a delicious, comforting meal that’s simple to prepare, look no further than Easy Italian Baked Meatballs. These savory bites are not only appealing to the taste buds but also a joy to make! Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe will guide you through the process step by step. Let’s dive into the flavorful world of Italian cuisine and create something special for your family or friends!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Italian Baked Meatballs

Easy Italian Baked Meatballs are a fantastic dish for many reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or even on a platter with toothpicks for a party. Second, they are straightforward to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Moreover, this recipe is naturally packed with flavors from the garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, ensuring every bite is delicious. And finally, they make excellent leftovers, so you can enjoy the goodness all over again.

Easy Italian Baked Meatballs

Author: Sarah Mendez
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 20–24 meatballs 1x

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Description

These Easy Italian Baked Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare. Made with pantry staples and baked to perfection, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or your favorite pasta dishes.

Instructions

Preheat oven: to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, pepper, and any optional ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Shape meatballs: Using clean hands or a scoop, form into 1 to 1.5-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through (internal temp should reach 160°F).
Serve: Enjoy with pasta, on sub rolls, or dipped in marinara sauce!

Notes

For softer meatballs, soak the breadcrumbs in a little milk before adding them to the mixture.
Double the batch and freeze extra meatballs for quick meals later on.
You can use a mix of ground beef and pork for even richer flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 meatballs
Calories: 220
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: italian baked meatballs, easy meatballs recipe, baked beef meatballs, gluten free meatballs

Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Italian Baked Meatballs:

To create these mouthwatering meatballs, gather the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef: This forms the base of your meatballs and gives them hearty flavor.
2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a wonderful aromatic flavor.
2 tsp onion powder: Provides depth and a slight sweetness to the meatballs.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs and keep them moist.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a rich, savory flavor.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color.
1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the other flavors.

Optional Add-Ons:

Considering how versatile meatballs can be, you might want to add some optional ingredients:

1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs: Oregano, basil, or a mix can enhance the Italian flavor profile.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: If you like a bit of heat in your meatballs.
1/4 cup minced onion: For extra texture and flavor.

Feel free to customize this list to suit your taste!

How to Make Easy Italian Baked Meatballs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s transform those ingredients into a plate of beautiful baked meatballs. Follow these detailed instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the meatballs will cook evenly and develop a nice, golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:

Ground beef
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Breadcrumbs
Grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley
Egg
Salt and pepper

Using your hands or a spoon, mix these ingredients well until fully combined. You want everything to be well-distributed, so no bite is without flavor!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Once the mixture is ready, take a portion and roll it in your palms to form meatballs. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter. This size offers a satisfying bite, and they will cook evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the meatballs from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Place your formed meatballs on the baking sheet, giving them a bit of space apart to allow for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 20 minutes. Look for a nice, golden-brown color, and check that they are cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 160°F or 70°C).

Step 6: Heat the Marinara Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, take a small saucepan and pour in 2 cups of marinara sauce. Heat it over medium-low heat. This step allows the sauce to meld with the flavors while you finish baking the meatballs.

Step 7: Serve Your Meatballs

Once the meatballs are baked, remove them from the oven. Place them on a plate and ladle the warm marinara sauce over them. Serve with pasta or in subs for a delightful meal!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Italian Baked Meatballs

Easy Italian Baked Meatballs can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some serving ideas:

Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs: Serve the meatballs on a bed of spaghetti tossed with marinara sauce for a traditional Italian meal.
Meatball Subs: Place several meatballs in a toasted sub roll, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted for a scrumptious sandwich.
Meatballs with Veggies: Serve with roasted vegetables for a wholesome dinner option.
On a Platter: If you’re hosting a gathering, place the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for a delicious appetizer.
Over a Salad: Add the meatballs to a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Easy Italian Baked Meatballs

Want to take your meatballs to the next level? Here are some expert tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality meat will enhance the flavor. If possible, opt for grass-fed beef for a richer taste.
Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Check for Doneness: For the best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs are cooked perfectly.
Rest Before Serving: Allow meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making them juicy and flavorful.
Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to add different spices or herbs to suit your taste. The beauty of meatballs lies in their versatility!

Easy Variations for Easy Italian Baked Meatballs

While the classic version is always a hit, consider these variations for a unique twist:

Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap out ground beef for leaner turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Vegetarian Option: Use lentils, chickpeas, or black beans combined with breadcrumbs and spices for a satisfying vegetarian meatball.
Cheesy Meatballs: Add small cubes of mozzarella cheese inside each meatball for a gooey surprise.
BBQ Meatballs: Replace marinara sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
Mediterranean Meatballs: Incorporate spices like cumin and coriander, and serve with tzatziki sauce instead of marinara.

Storage Tips to Store Easy Italian Baked Meatballs

Making a big batch of meatballs? Here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge. They should keep well for 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: For extended storage, freeze the meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container once frozen. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat in a microwave or on the stove.

Conclusion

Easy Italian Baked Meatballs are not just a simple recipe; they’re a loving tribute to comfort food. With their fantastic flavor and endless versatility, you can enjoy them in many ways. By following this guide, you are equipped to create a delightful dish that will impress family and friends alike. Dig in and savor the deliciousness of homemade Italian meatballs tonight!

FAQs About Easy Italian Baked Meatballs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will result in a lighter meatball. Be sure to add seasoning to maintain flavor.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix the meatball ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with meatballs other than pasta?

Meatballs are versatile and taste great with rice, in wraps, on a salad, or in a sandwich.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). They should also be golden brown on the outside.

Can I bake the meatballs directly in the sauce?

Yes, but be aware that they might have a different texture. Baking them separately helps maintain their shape and crispiness. Once they’re cooked, you can add them to the sauce to soak up flavor.

Now that you’re armed with a delicious recipe and tips for making Easy Italian Baked Meatballs, it’s time to cook up a storm! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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