10 Meatball Recipes You’ll Want to Roll Again and Again: Who doesn’t love a good meatball? These versatile little bites of joy can be the star of your dinner table or a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re craving something classic, spicy, or a bit more exotic, there’s a meatball recipe out there for you. Today, we’re diving into ten incredible meatball recipes that you’ll want to roll again and again. Let’s get started!
Classic Italian Meatballs
When you think of meatballs, chances are you’re picturing these. Classic Italian meatballs are hearty, flavorful, and a staple in many households.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef and pork
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Parsley
- Eggs
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Preparation Steps:
- Mix ground meats, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Roll into golf-ball-sized meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.
- Simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce for about 30 minutes.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a mix of beef and pork for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
Swedish Meatballs
These meatballs are a bit smaller than their Italian cousins and come with a creamy, rich sauce that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef and pork
- Onion
- Breadcrumbs
- Milk
- Eggs
- Allspice and nutmeg
- Butter
- Flour
- Beef broth
- Heavy cream
Preparation Steps:
- Mix ground meats, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg.
- Form small meatballs and brown them in butter.
- Remove meatballs and use the same pan to make a roux with butter and flour.
- Gradually add beef broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Return meatballs to the pan and simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes.
Unique Flavors and Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over egg noodles or mashed potatoes.
- The combination of allspice and nutmeg gives these meatballs their distinctive flavor.
Spicy Mexican Meatballs
Bring a little heat to your meatball game with these spicy Mexican-inspired delights.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Chorizo
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Cilantro
- Garlic
- Jalapeño
- Cumin
- Chili powder
- Tomato sauce
Preparation Steps:
- Combine ground beef, chorizo, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, finely diced jalapeño, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roll into meatballs and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes.
- Simmer baked meatballs in tomato sauce for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips for Adjusting Spice Levels:
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño and chili powder to suit your taste.
- For a milder version, use less chorizo and more ground beef.
Greek Meatballs (Keftedes)
These Mediterranean meatballs are packed with herbs and often served with a refreshing yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
- Ground lamb or beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Mint
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Lemon zest
Preparation Steps:
- Mix ground meat with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped mint, oregano, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Form meatballs and fry in olive oil until browned and cooked through.
Traditional Accompaniments:
- Serve with tzatziki sauce and a Greek salad.
- These are also great in pita wraps with fresh veggies.
Asian-Inspired Meatballs
These meatballs bring together the flavors of ginger, garlic, and soy for an irresistible dish.
Ingredients:
- Ground pork
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Green onions
- Soy sauce
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Hoisin sauce
- Sesame oil
Preparation Steps:
- Combine ground pork with grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, soy sauce, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
- Form meatballs and bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes.
- Toss cooked meatballs in a mixture of hoisin sauce and sesame oil.
Sauces and Sides for Serving:
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs
For those looking for a meatless option, these lentil meatballs are both hearty and delicious.
Ingredients:
- Cooked lentils
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Garlic
- Onion
- Parsley
Preparation Steps:
- Mash cooked lentils and mix with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Form into meatballs and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes.
Cooking Tips for Texture and Flavor:
- Ensure lentils are well-cooked and mashed to help bind the meatballs.
- Add extra herbs or spices to enhance flavor.
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Combining the flavors of chicken Parmesan into a bite-sized treat, these meatballs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
- Ground chicken
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Basil
- Egg
- Marinara sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
Preparation Steps:
- Mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped basil, beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
- Form meatballs and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes.
- Place meatballs in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella, and bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve over spaghetti or on sub rolls for meatball subs.
BBQ Meatballs
These meatballs are perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy winter dinner with their sweet and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Breadcrumbs
- Onion
- Garlic
- Egg
- BBQ sauce
- Brown sugar
Preparation Steps:
- Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
- Form meatballs and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes.
- Simmer baked meatballs in a mixture of BBQ sauce and brown sugar.
Tips for Perfect BBQ Flavor:
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce or make your own for a personalized touch.
- Add a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs
These meatballs have a delightful surprise inside – gooey, melted cheese!
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Breadcrumbs
- Garlic
- Onion
- Egg
- Mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Preparation Steps:
- Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, beaten