There’s something comforting about a juicy meatball swimming in a rich and flavorful sauce. Whether you’re looking for a classic Italian-style dish or something with a bit more international flair, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering meatball recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From spicy Asian glazes to sweet and sour pineapple sauces, these recipes offer a wealth of flavor combinations to explore.
Classic Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
A classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, these meatballs are simmered in a rich marinara sauce and served with pasta or as a sub sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the marinara sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
7. Serve with pasta, as a sub sandwich, or garnish with chopped basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy
A classic Swedish dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, these meatballs are served in a rich and creamy gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp allspice
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and allspice. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine beef broth and heavy cream in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add butter to the skillet and stir until melted.
7. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the gravy and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Asian Glazed Meatballs
Add a sweet and spicy twist to classic meatballs with this easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for appetizers or snacks, these flavorful bites will be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for baking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each meatball.
4. Spray the top of each meatball with cooking spray or oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Meatballs with Pineapple Sauce
Transform classic meatballs into a tropical treat with this sweet and sour twist! Juicy pineapple chunks add a tangy kick to the savory beef mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 (8 oz) can pineapple chunks in juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs bake, combine pineapple chunks, brown sugar, and rice vinegar in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve sweet and sour meatballs with warm pineapple sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Meatballs in Tangy Sauce
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic meatballs with this tangy BBQ recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into 20-25 meatballs. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and BBQ sauce in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with tangy BBQ sauce.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top of each meatball.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Meatballs in Spiced Tomato Sauce
Moroccan Meatballs in Spiced Tomato Sauce Recipe
Experience the flavors of Morocco with this aromatic and savory dish that combines tender meatballs with a rich, spiced tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine meatball ingredients and mix well.
3. Form into 12-15 meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
6. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, honey, cinnamon, and cardamom.
8. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
9. Serve meatballs with spiced tomato sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Teriyaki Meatballs with Sesame Glaze
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Meatball recipe, topped with a nutty Sesame Glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine sesame seeds and 2 tablespoons soy sauce in a small bowl to make the Sesame Glaze.
6. Brush glaze over meatballs during the last 2 minutes of baking.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Greek Meatballs in Lemon Garlic Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with these flavorful Greek meatballs smothered in a zesty lemon garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated feta cheese (optional)
– Lemon Garlic Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, prepare Lemon Garlic Sauce (recipe below).
6. Serve hot meatballs with Lemon Garlic Sauce spooned over the top.
Lemon Garlic Sauce:
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over meatballs.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Honey Garlic Meatballs in Sticky Sauce
Honey Garlic Meatballs in Sticky Sauce Recipe
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of these mouthwatering meatballs smothered in a rich, sticky sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sticky sauce (see below)
Sticky Sauce:
– 1 cup grape jelly
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, honey, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare sticky sauce by whisking together grape jelly, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ground ginger in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with sticky sauce. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Buffalo Meatballs in Spicy Blue Cheese Sauce
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the bold flavors of buffalo meatballs and spicy blue cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with hot sauce.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine blue cheese crumbles and heavy cream in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
7. Serve meatballs with warm spicy blue cheese sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Crockpot Meatballs in Mushroom Gravy
This recipe is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of beef broth
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the meatballs in the Crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, milk, butter, and thyme until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture over the meatballs in the Crockpot.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve hot over cooked noodles, rice, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Coconut Curry Meatballs in Creamy Sauce
Coconut Curry Meatballs in Creamy Sauce Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the warm spices of curry powder and the creaminess of a homemade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, cilantro, olive oil, garlic, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are baking, combine coconut milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan.
7. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Albondigas in Saffron Tomato Sauce
This traditional Spanish recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich and flavorful saffron-infused tomato sauce, perfect for serving with crusty bread or over rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, saffron mixture, and cilantro (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the cooked meatballs to the tomato sauce and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cranberry Glazed Meatballs in Sweet Sauce
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional meatballs, these Cranberry Glazed Meatballs are perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (such as ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar)
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While meatballs are cooking, combine sweet and sour sauce, cranberry sauce, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
7. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the Cranberry Glaze.
8. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Mexican Meatballs in Chipotle Sauce
This recipe combines the classic Italian meatball with the bold flavors of Mexico, wrapped up in a spicy chipotle sauce. Perfect for a unique twist on game day or as a delicious addition to your favorite taco dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth in a medium saucepan.
6. Heat mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through (about 10 minutes).
7. Add olive oil to the saucepan and stir to combine.
8. Serve meatballs with chipotle sauce spooned over top, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Pesto Meatballs in Basil Cream Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of rich beef meatballs, creamy basil sauce, and a hint of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine pesto and heavy cream in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add chopped basil leaves and stir to combine.
7. Serve the meatballs with the Basil Cream Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Pork Meatballs in Rich Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your mealtime with these tender and flavorful meatballs smothered in a rich, bold red wine sauce. Perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef and pork mix
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine meat mixture, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, combine red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add baked meatballs to the saucepan and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until coated in the rich red wine sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce
Transform traditional meatballs into a plant-based delight with this easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (vegetarian)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, oats, Parmesan cheese, parsley, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the crushed tomatoes and chopped basil in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Serve the meatballs in the tomato basil sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 18 delicious meatball recipes! From classic Italian meatballs in marinara sauce to spicy Asian glazed meatballs, each recipe offers a unique twist on this comfort food favorite. Explore other mouthwatering options like Swedish meatballs in creamy gravy, sweet and sour meatballs with pineapple sauce, and much more. Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy or rich and savory, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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