Homemade Meatballs

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There’s something deeply satisfying about a platter of juicy homemade meatballs, fresh from the oven or simmered in sauce until they’re melt-in-your-mouth tender. This recipe brings classic comfort to your kitchen with every bite packed with flavor and love. Whether you tuck them into a hoagie, layer them over spaghetti, or enjoy them straight off the pan, these meatballs will have everyone asking for seconds.

Made with simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, these meatballs come together in just under an hour. They freeze beautifully, reheat like a dream, and adapt easily to any sauce you love. From family dinners to party trays, they’re a go-to favorite that delivers every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Meatballs Recipe

These meatballs strike the perfect balance between hearty and tender. Using a mix of beef and pork gives them richness, while breadcrumbs and milk make them soft and juicy. You can bake them for a lighter option or brown them in a skillet for that irresistible golden crust.

They’re also make-ahead friendly. Prepare a double batch and freeze half for busy nights. They’re just as delicious in marinara as they are in Swedish cream sauce or even tossed in barbecue for a sweet-savory twist.

What Meat Should I Use for the Best Meatballs?

A good meatball starts with the right meat blend. A mix of 80/20 ground beef and ground pork gives these meatballs great flavor and fat content to stay moist. You can also experiment with veal, chicken, or turkey if you prefer something leaner. Avoid ultra-lean meat blends, though—fat is essential for flavor and tenderness in a good meatball.

Ingredients for the Homemade Meatballs

The beauty of these homemade meatballs lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. With a balance of meats, aromatics, and pantry staples, each element plays a key role in creating that perfect bite. Make sure to use fresh herbs and high-quality meat for best results.

• Ground beef
• Ground pork
• Breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Eggs
• Garlic
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil (if pan-frying)

How To Make the Homemade Meatballs

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Base

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add in the breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined—don’t overmix to keep them tender.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 1 1/2 inch balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

You can either bake them at 400°F for 20 minutes until browned and cooked through, or pan-fry them in olive oil over medium heat until golden and crisp on all sides.

Step 4: Simmer in Sauce (Optional)

For even more flavor and tenderness, transfer the cooked meatballs to a pot of warm marinara sauce and let them simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This step is especially great if you’re serving them with pasta.

How to Serve and Store Homemade Meatballs

Homemade meatballs are endlessly versatile. Once cooked, you can serve them over spaghetti, tuck them into a toasted hoagie roll with melted mozzarella, or use them as a protein-rich topping for a rice or grain bowl. If you’re hosting, set out a platter of meatballs with toothpicks and dipping sauces for an easy appetizer.

This recipe makes about 20 meatballs, enough to feed 4 to 6 people depending on serving style and side dishes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze beautifully—just arrange them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a bag or container.

To reheat, simply simmer in sauce until warmed through or bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

What to Serve With Homemade Meatballs?

Classic Spaghetti

You can’t go wrong with spaghetti and meatballs. The sauce-soaked noodles make the perfect partner to these juicy bites.

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread with crisp edges is great for scooping up extra sauce and adds a satisfying crunch to the plate.

Roasted Vegetables

Serve with a colorful medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers for a wholesome and balanced meal.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with creamy dressing brings a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs.

Mashed Potatoes

Swap out pasta and go for smooth, creamy mashed potatoes. It turns the dish into cozy, stick-to-your-ribs comfort food.

Polenta

Creamy polenta makes a delicious, hearty base that soaks up the meatball juices beautifully.

Rice Pilaf

A light, herby rice pilaf is a great option if you want a gluten-free or Mediterranean-style pairing.

Baked Ziti

If you’re planning a feast, pair your meatballs with baked ziti or any cheesy pasta bake for ultimate indulgence.

Want More Meat Recipes Ideas?

If these homemade meatballs have you inspired, here are a few other beefy comfort dishes you’ll love:

• Try this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a cheesy, one-pan wonder.
• Enjoy cozy flavors in this Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta packed with herbs and garlic.
• Get fancy with Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce that feels like restaurant-style comfort.
• Keep it quick and satisfying with this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta that comes together in a flash.
• Need a cozy bake? Try this Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce perfect for gatherings.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how your meatballs turned out! Did you bake them or fry them? Did you serve them with spaghetti, or try something new?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier.

Explore beautifully curated beef dinners, slow cooker favorites, and health-boosting dishes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next kitchen favorite!

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