Who doesn’t love the comforting embrace of a perfectly baked meatball? Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a cozy gathering, our roundup of 20 Delicious Meatball Recipes Oven Baked Perfectly is your ticket to flavor town. From classic Italian to bold new twists, these recipes promise to delight your taste buds and simplify your cooking routine. Let’s dive in and find your next favorite dish!
Classic Italian Oven Baked Meatballs
Gently, the aroma of garlic and herbs fills the kitchen, a reminder of the simple pleasures that cooking brings. Today, we’re embracing the warmth of the oven with a dish that feels like a hug from the inside, a classic that never fails to comfort.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, grated
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
- Marinara sauce – 2 cups
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 12 equal-sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 2 minutes per side. Tip: Don’t crowd the skillet; work in batches if necessary.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Tip: For extra flavor, let the sauce simmer for a minute before adding the meatballs back in.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. Tip: The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Let the meatballs rest in the sauce for 5 minutes before serving.
These meatballs emerge tender and juicy, with a rich tomato sauce that clings to every bite. Try serving them over a bed of creamy polenta or tucked into a crusty roll for a hearty sandwich.
Swedish Oven Baked Meatballs with Cream Sauce
Lingering in the quiet of the morning, the thought of Swedish Oven Baked Meatballs with Cream Sauce brings a comforting warmth to the heart, a dish that whispers of home and the simple joys of cooking.
Ingredients
– Ground beef – 1 lb
– Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
– Milk – ¼ cup
– Egg – 1
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Butter – 2 tbsp
– Flour – 2 tbsp
– Beef broth – 1 cup
– Heavy cream – ½ cup
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, and salt until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until the meatballs are golden brown.
5. While the meatballs bake, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
7. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
8. Stir in heavy cream and bring the sauce to a simmer.
9. Reduce heat and let the sauce thicken for 5 minutes.
10. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce, gently stirring to coat.
11. Serve hot.
Oven-baked to perfection, these meatballs are tender and juicy, enveloped in a velvety cream sauce that’s rich yet not overpowering. Try serving them over a bed of mashed potatoes for a truly comforting meal.
Spicy Oven Baked Turkey Meatballs
Here in the quiet of the morning, with the sun just beginning to stretch its fingers across the kitchen counter, I find myself drawn to the simplicity and warmth of preparing something both nourishing and vibrant. Spicy oven baked turkey meatballs offer just that—a dance of heat and comfort, perfect for those moments when you crave something bold yet homely.
Ingredients
- Ground turkey – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Red pepper flakes – ½ tsp
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to tough meatballs.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, placing each on the prepared baking sheet. A small ice cream scoop can help ensure uniform size for even cooking.
- Drizzle the meatballs lightly with olive oil to help them brown in the oven.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Golden and aromatic, these meatballs carry a gentle heat that builds with each bite. Serve them nestled in a pool of marinara sauce for dipping, or slice them to crown a crisp salad for a lighter take.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Now, as the morning light filters through the kitchen window, there’s something comforting about the thought of oven-baked meatballs simmering in marinara sauce. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, simple yet deeply satisfying, perfect for those days when you crave a touch of homemade love.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder – 1/2 tsp
- Marinara sauce – 2 cups
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. This ensures the meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. A small ice cream scoop can help make them uniform in size for even cooking.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2 minutes per side. This step adds flavor and helps them hold their shape.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 160°F when inserted into the center of a meatball.
- Let the meatballs rest in the sauce for 5 minutes before serving. This allows them to absorb more flavor and become juicier.
Here, the meatballs emerge tender and flavorful, with the marinara sauce clinging to each bite. Serve them over a bed of creamy polenta or tucked into a crusty baguette for a sandwich that’s anything but ordinary.
Cheesy Oven Baked Meatballs
Falling into the rhythm of a quiet kitchen morning, there’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of cheesy oven-baked meatballs wafting through the air. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, simple yet satisfying, perfect for those moments when you crave something hearty without the fuss.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup
- Egg – 1
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Marinara sauce – 2 cups
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them in the prepared baking dish. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, ensuring each one is lightly coated.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, covering the meatballs generously.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the meatballs are cooked through. Tip: For an even crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
- Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them even more flavorful.
The meatballs emerge from the oven tender and juicy, with a golden cheese crust that’s irresistibly gooey. Serve them over a bed of spaghetti or tucked into a crusty roll for a meatball sub that’s anything but ordinary.
Oven Baked Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki
Remembering the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, I often find myself craving dishes that bring its flavors to life in my kitchen. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that does just that, with a comforting twist.
Ingredients
- Ground lamb – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Dried oregano – 1 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Greek yogurt – 1 cup
- Cucumber – ½ cup, grated
- Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
- Dill – 1 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- While the meatballs bake, prepare the tzatziki by combining the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, and chopped dill in a bowl. Stir well and refrigerate until serving.
- Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
Gently savor the contrast between the crispy exterior and the juicy interior of these meatballs, paired with the cool, creamy tzatziki. They’re perfect nestled in a pita or atop a vibrant Greek salad for a meal that transports you straight to the Aegean coast.
Oven Baked Meatballs in BBQ Sauce
Perhaps there’s nothing quite as comforting as the aroma of meatballs baking in the oven, their savory scent mingling with the sweet tang of BBQ sauce, promising a meal that feels like a warm embrace.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- BBQ sauce – 1 cup
- Salt – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and salt. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, rolling them gently between your palms for even cooking.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for even browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then carefully remove the tray to brush each meatball generously with BBQ sauce.
- Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
- Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring they’re moist and flavorful.
Lusciously tender with a hint of smokiness from the BBQ glaze, these meatballs are perfect nestled atop a mound of creamy mashed potatoes or tucked into a crusty roll for a satisfying sandwich.
Healthy Oven Baked Chicken Meatballs
How comforting it is to find a recipe that feels like a warm hug, yet doesn’t weigh you down. These oven-baked chicken meatballs are just that—a tender, flavorful bite that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and salt. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet as you go. A small ice cream scoop can help keep them uniform in size for even cooking.
- Drizzle the meatballs lightly with olive oil to help them brown in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring they stay moist.
Velvety in texture with a subtle garlic aroma, these meatballs are perfect atop a bed of zucchini noodles or nestled into a whole-grain pita with a dollop of tzatziki for a light yet satisfying meal.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy
Venturing into the kitchen on a quiet evening, the aroma of oven-baked meatballs with mushroom gravy begins to fill the air, a comforting promise of the meal to come. This dish, with its tender meatballs and rich, earthy gravy, is a testament to the simple pleasures of home cooking.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Mushrooms – 8 oz, sliced
- Flour – 2 tbsp
- Beef broth – 2 cups
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Shape the mixture into 12 equal-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
- While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft and have released their moisture, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the baked meatballs to the skillet, turning to coat them in the gravy. Simmer together for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Warm and inviting, these meatballs are wonderfully tender, with the mushroom gravy adding a depth of flavor that’s both rich and comforting. Serve them over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a meal that feels like a hug.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Sweet and Sour Sauce
Just like the quiet moments before the house stirs awake, this dish brings a comforting warmth that’s both familiar and eagerly anticipated. Oven baked meatballs with sweet and sour sauce is a simple pleasure, a reminder of the joy found in the balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- Ketchup – 1/2 cup
- Brown sugar – 1/4 cup
- Vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Water – 1/4 cup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- While the meatballs bake, combine ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Transfer the baked meatballs to a serving dish and pour the sweet and sour sauce over them, tossing gently to coat.
Lusciously tender meatballs coated in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce offer a delightful contrast in textures. Serve them over a bed of steamed rice or as a hearty appetizer, each bite a perfect harmony of flavors.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Alfredo Sauce
Beneath the soft glow of the kitchen light, there’s something deeply comforting about preparing a dish that promises warmth and richness in every bite. This recipe, with its tender meatballs and creamy Alfredo sauce, is a testament to the simple joys of home cooking.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder – 1/2 tsp
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Butter – 1/2 cup
- Parmesan cheese – 1 cup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the meatballs evenly.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about an inch apart for even cooking.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 160°F when inserted into the center of a meatball.
- While the meatballs bake, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, being careful not to let it boil.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a little milk, adding one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Once the meatballs are done, gently toss them in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.
With each meatball enveloped in the velvety Alfredo sauce, the dish offers a delightful contrast of textures—tender and juicy inside, with a slight crispness from baking. Serve it over a bed of fettuccine or alongside a crisp green salad for a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Honey Garlic Sauce
Under the soft glow of the kitchen light, there’s something deeply comforting about rolling meatballs between your palms, the aroma of garlic and honey promising warmth with every bite.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Honey – 1/4 cup
- Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
- Minced garlic – 2 cloves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and garlic powder until just mixed; overworking can make the meatballs tough.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart for even cooking.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- While the meatballs bake, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Toss the baked meatballs in the honey garlic sauce until evenly coated.
When served, these meatballs offer a delightful contrast between their crispy exterior and tender interior, the sweetness of the honey perfectly balancing the savory depth of the garlic. Try skewering them with toothpicks for an easy, elegant appetizer at your next gathering.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Teriyaki Sauce
Yesterday, I found myself craving something both comforting and a little adventurous, leading me to the kitchen to prepare a dish that marries the heartiness of meatballs with the sweet, umami-rich embrace of teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Teriyaki sauce – 1 cup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and salt. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to ensure even cooking.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through. A tip: turning them halfway through cooking helps achieve an even color.
- Transfer the baked meatballs to a skillet over medium heat and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the meatballs evenly. Another tip: if the sauce is too thick, a splash of water can loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for a pop of color and texture. A final tip: these meatballs are delicious over a bed of steamed rice or nestled in a sub roll for a hearty sandwich.
As you take your first bite, the tender meatballs, now glazed in a sticky, sweet teriyaki sauce, offer a satisfying contrast to the slight crunch of the garnish. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels a bit special or for sharing at your next gathering.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Peanut Sauce
Just like the quiet moments before the house stirs, this dish brings a comforting warmth that’s both familiar and surprising. Oven baked meatballs with peanut sauce is a humble yet bold choice for those evenings when you crave something deeply satisfying without too much fuss.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Peanut butter – 1/2 cup
- Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
- Brown sugar – 1 tbsp
- Water – 1/4 cup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and salt. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through, flipping them halfway through for even browning.
- While the meatballs bake, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Once the meatballs are done, toss them gently in the peanut sauce until evenly coated.
With their tender interior and the rich, nutty glaze clinging to each bite, these meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic. Serve them over a bed of steamed rice or alongside crisp vegetables for a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Spinach and Feta
Kindly, as the morning light filters through the kitchen window, there’s something profoundly comforting about preparing a dish that feels like a hug. Oven baked meatballs with spinach and feta offer just that—a tender, flavorful embrace with every bite.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Spinach – 1 cup, chopped
- Feta cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
- Egg – 1
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet as you go. Tip: Wetting your hands slightly can prevent the mixture from sticking.
- Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden and cooked through. Tip: Turning them halfway through ensures even browning.
- Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving. Tip: This allows the juices to redistribute, making them even more tender.
Amazingly, these meatballs emerge from the oven with a juicy interior and a slightly crisp exterior. The feta adds a salty tang that pairs beautifully with the earthy spinach, making them perfect over a bed of creamy polenta or tucked into a warm pita.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Dusk settles in, and the kitchen becomes a sanctuary where simple ingredients transform into comforting meals. Today, we’re embracing the warmth of the oven with a dish that marries the richness of meat with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Sun-dried tomatoes – ½ cup, chopped
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet as you go. Tip: Wetting your hands slightly prevents the mixture from sticking.
- Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden and reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even cooking.
- Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Tip: This resting period ensures they stay moist and tender.
Lightly caramelized on the outside yet juicy within, these meatballs carry the intense flavor of sun-dried tomatoes in every bite. Serve them over a bed of creamy polenta or tucked into a crusty baguette for a sandwich that sings with Mediterranean flair.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Pesto
Evenings like these call for something comforting yet effortlessly elegant, a dish that fills the kitchen with aromas promising warmth and satisfaction. Oven baked meatballs with pesto offer just that, a simple pleasure that marries the heartiness of meat with the fresh vibrancy of basil pesto.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
- Pesto – ¼ cup
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. This ensures the meatballs cook evenly and develop a slight crust.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands to avoid compacting the meat, which can lead to tough meatballs.
- Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. A small ice cream scoop can help keep them uniform in size for even cooking.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about an inch apart. Drizzle with olive oil to help them brown.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then spoon a small amount of pesto over each meatball. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes to warm the pesto.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meatballs.
Oven baked meatballs with pesto emerge juicy inside with a tender crust, the pesto adding a bright, herby contrast. Serve them atop a swirl of creamy polenta or tucked into a crusty baguette for a sandwich that sings of summer.
Oven Baked Meatballs with Mozzarella Stuffed Inside
Today, as the morning light filters through the kitchen window, there’s a comforting simplicity in preparing a dish that feels like a warm hug. Oven baked meatballs with mozzarella stuffed inside offer just that—a tender, cheesy surprise nestled within each bite, perfect for a leisurely weekend meal.
Ingredients
– Ground beef – 1 lb
– Mozzarella cheese – 8 oz, cut into ½-inch cubes
– Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
– Egg – 1
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Black pepper – ½ tsp
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Marinara sauce – 2 cups
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
3. Take a small portion of the meat mixture, flatten it in your hand, place a mozzarella cube in the center, and encase the cheese completely by shaping the meat around it into a ball.
4. Repeat the process until all the meat and cheese are used, ensuring each meatball is uniform in size for even cooking.
5. Arrange the meatballs in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each for heat circulation.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then carefully turn each meatball to ensure they brown evenly.
7. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the meatballs are cooked through.
8. Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
The melted mozzarella creates a luscious center, while the meatballs remain juicy and flavorful. Serve them over a bed of spaghetti or nestled in a crusty roll for a satisfying meal that delights with every cheesy pull.
Oven Baked Meatballs with a Crispy Coating
Venturing into the kitchen on a quiet morning, the thought of crafting something both comforting and crisp comes to mind. Oven-baked meatballs with a crispy coating offer that perfect blend of tenderness and texture, a dish that feels like a warm hug with every bite.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup
- Egg – 1
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, placing each on the prepared baking sheet. Tip: For uniform meatballs, use a small ice cream scoop.
- Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil, ensuring each is lightly coated. This helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the meatballs are browned and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving. Tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meatballs.
Crunchy on the outside yet juicy within, these meatballs carry a savory depth from the Parmesan. Serve them atop a mound of spaghetti or tucked into a sub roll for a hearty sandwich.
Oven Baked Meatballs with a Glaze of Balsamic Vinegar
Gently, the aroma of balsamic vinegar and herbs fills the kitchen, a reminder of the simple pleasures that cooking brings. This dish, with its tender meatballs and glossy glaze, is a testament to the beauty of combining few ingredients with care.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Balsamic vinegar – ¼ cup
- Honey – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and salt. Mix gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- While the meatballs bake, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush them generously with the balsamic glaze.
- Return the meatballs to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to set the glaze.
Unassuming yet deeply flavorful, these meatballs offer a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a texture that’s tender inside and slightly caramelized outside. Serve them over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables for a meal that feels both rustic and refined.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 20 delicious oven-baked meatball recipes inspires your next meal! From classic to creative, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment sharing which ones you loved, and pin this article to your Pinterest board for easy access. Happy cooking!