There's something irresistibly comforting about biting into a tender, juicy meatball that's been baked to perfection. Whether served over a bed of spaghetti, tucked into a crusty roll, or enjoyed on their own, these baked meatballs are a guaranteed hit.

I first discovered this recipe when hosting a dinner party and needed a dish that would please a crowd without too much fuss. The result? Perfectly golden meatballs that were devoured in minutes and are now a staple in my meal rotation.
Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can make it your own.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Meatballs Recipe
Prepare to fall in love with these meatballs that check all the right boxes. They're not just delicious; they're versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion.
First, they’re a breeze to prepare. You can whip up a batch in just under an hour, with minimal prep and cleanup required. Perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Healthier than traditional frying, these meatballs are baked in the oven, cutting down on excess oil while still achieving a golden-brown exterior. You'll love how light and flavorful they turn out.
Plus, these meatballs are freezer-friendly. Double the recipe, stash some away, and you'll have a quick meal option ready to go whenever you need it.
Lastly, the recipe is incredibly adaptable. Swap out proteins, adjust seasonings, or even make them gluten-free—the possibilities are endless. Let's take a closer look at what makes them shine.
Ingredients Notes

The secret to these delectable meatballs lies in a blend of simple, everyday ingredients that come together in perfect harmony.
- Ground Meat: A mix of ground beef and ground pork gives these meatballs their signature flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner options, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind the texture may be slightly firmer.
- Breadcrumbs: Using plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs helps bind the meatballs while adding a subtle, complementary flavor. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats.
- Eggs: Acting as the glue, eggs ensure the meatballs hold their shape while baking. Two large eggs are just the right amount for this recipe.
- Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor that elevates these meatballs from good to great. Freshly grated cheese works best for maximum flavor.
- Seasonings: A blend of garlic, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper ensures each bite is packed with flavor. Don’t skimp on the fresh parsley for a pop of herbaceous brightness.
- Milk: A splash of milk keeps the mixture moist and tender. You can use any type of milk, including plant-based options like almond or oat milk.
No special equipment is needed—just a baking sheet and a mixing bowl. For even cooking, a cookie scoop or your hands will do the trick for portioning the meatballs.
How To Make This Baked Meatballs Recipe

Making these meatballs is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you'll have a tray of perfectly baked meatballs in no time.
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, milk, and seasonings. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 1 ½ inches in diameter). Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For a golden crust, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the meatballs cool slightly before serving. Pair them with marinara sauce, pasta, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage Options
These baked meatballs are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store them for maximum freshness:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezer: Allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat frozen meatballs in the oven at 375°F until hot, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, simmer them in a pot of sauce for a quick, flavorful reheating option.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this baked meatballs recipe is how easily it adapts to your preferences. Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Change the Protein: Swap ground pork or beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- Add a Twist: Incorporate minced spinach, shredded carrots, or diced mushrooms into the mixture for a boost of nutrients and flavor.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a touch of heat. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Stuff each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella for a gooey surprise in every bite.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these meatballs uniquely yours!
Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or whipping up appetizers for a party, these baked meatballs are sure to impress. They’re a simple yet satisfying recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
PrintThe Best Baked Meatballs Recipe
These baked meatballs are the best you'll ever make! Packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and healthier since they're baked, they’re perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a party appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 meatballs 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup milk
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
- Add eggs and milk to the mixture. Use your hands to gently mix until well combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Roll the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly spray the meatballs with olive oil to enhance browning.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
- Serve hot with marinara sauce, pasta, or in a sub roll.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of ketchup or BBQ sauce to the mixture.
- These meatballs freeze well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
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