Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make oven-baked meatballs that are perfect for any occasion.

Perrie Lawson

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:37:11.836Z

This Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe is a family favorite that can be whipped up in no time. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Flavorful and juicy meatballs with a hint of herbs
  • Quick and easy preparation in just 30 minutes
  • Versatile for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer

The Perfect Meatball for Every Occasion

These oven-baked meatballs are not just a meal; they’re a versatile dish that fits any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party, preparing a family meal, or looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution, these meatballs deliver flavor and satisfaction. Their juicy texture and rich taste make them a favorite among both kids and adults alike, ensuring that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.

What’s wonderful about these meatballs is their adaptability. Serve them alongside your favorite pasta for a classic Italian meal, or pile them into a sub roll with marinara sauce and melted cheese for a hearty sandwich. You can even enjoy them as a satisfying appetizer at gatherings. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for any culinary scenario.

Quick Preparation for Busy Lives

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be challenging. That’s why this Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe is designed with simplicity and speed in mind. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal without sacrificing quality. The straightforward ingredients and easy preparation steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs.

The convenience doesn't stop at preparation. These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Simply reheat them when needed, and you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with family and friends without the stress of last-minute cooking.

Flavorful Ingredients Make All the Difference

The key to these meatballs' irresistible flavor lies in the quality of the ingredients. Using fresh herbs like parsley and classic seasonings like garlic and Italian seasoning elevates the taste and aroma, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful texture that complements the ground beef beautifully.

Moreover, this recipe allows for customization. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. You could try adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or switching up the ground meat for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun and creative cooking experience.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

  • 1 jar marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp olive oil

Mix all ingredients well and form into meatballs.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through.

Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.

Serve

Once the meatballs are done, serve them with the marinara sauce over pasta or in a sub.

Enjoy your delicious meatballs!

Storage Tips

To keep your meatballs fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days, making them a great option for meal prep. If you want to make them ahead and save time later, consider freezing the meatballs. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen meatballs, you can bake them directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve with minimal effort. This makes planning meals for busy weeks a breeze!

Pairing Suggestions

These oven-baked meatballs shine when paired with a rich marinara sauce, but there are plenty of other delicious options to consider. For a lighter touch, serve them with a fresh tomato salad or a side of steamed vegetables. Alternatively, you could create a meatball platter with a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue or garlic aioli, perfect for entertaining guests.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving the meatballs over a bed of zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash for a healthier twist on the classic pasta dish. This not only enhances the meal's nutritional value but also caters to those looking for gluten-free or low-carb alternatives.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the meatballs either before or after baking. Just store them in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs are great with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or served as an appetizer with toothpicks.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.

→ How do I know when the meatballs are done?

The meatballs should be browned on the outside and have an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe

Enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make oven-baked meatballs that are perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Perrie Lawson

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Meatballs

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  5. 1 egg
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 1 tsp salt
  8. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  9. 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

  1. 1 jar marinara sauce
  2. 1 tsp olive oil

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

Step 03

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 04

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through.

Step 05

While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.

Step 06

Once the meatballs are done, serve them with the marinara sauce over pasta or in a sub.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 20g