Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that's not only delicious but also freezer-friendly? Say hello to these mouthwatering Italian Beef Meatballs! Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare, these meatballs are a game changer for busy families or anyone looking to save time in the kitchen. With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up a batch of 24 savory meatballs that are ideal for a quick meal or a cozy gathering. Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them a convenient option for those last-minute cravings. Read on to discover the secrets to crafting these delectable meatballs that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 24 meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 1 egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice brown crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and the egg. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, then adjust according to your preference.
- Once the mixture is well combined and seasoned, use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs. Aim for about
- 5 inches in diameter for each meatball, which will yield approximately 24 meatballs.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the formed meatballs on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
- Once all the meatballs are on the baking sheet, place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (70°C).
- After the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
- If you plan to freeze the meatballs, allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, you can place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm. This will prevent them from sticking together.
- After the meatballs are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date and type of meatballs. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When ready to use, you can cook the frozen meatballs directly from the freezer. Simply add them to your favorite sauce and simmer until heated through, or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so mix just until everything is combined.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and garlic will enhance the flavor of your meatballs. Opt for fresh over dried whenever possible.
- Perfect Size: Aim for meatballs that are about
- 5 inches in diameter. This size ensures they cook evenly and are easy to handle.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your meatballs. They should reach 160°F (70°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Freezing Tips: To prevent your meatballs from sticking together, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Versatile Cooking: You can cook the frozen meatballs directly from the freezer! Add them to your favorite sauce or bake them in the oven for a quick and easy meal.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve these meatballs with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or on a platter with toothpicks for a delightful appetizer at your next gathering.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg
