Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe

Name: Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 large egg; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Marinara sauce; Spaghetti or sub rolls; Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Fast Flavor Fix

Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs are a delicious and easy dish perfect for busy weeknights. These flavorful meatballs can be served with pasta, in a sub, or enjoyed on their own.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:40:21.352Z

These Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Ideal for a family meal or a get-together, the recipe allows for customization of spices and herbs to suit your taste. Serve them with your favorite sauce or in a sandwich for a delightful treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy and tender meatballs baked to perfection
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup

      

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

When you're juggling a busy schedule, finding time to cook can feel daunting. That’s where these Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs come in. They require minimal time and effort, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty and satisfying dish on the table, making them an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.

These meatballs are not only quick to prepare but also bake beautifully in the oven, freeing you up to focus on other tasks or enjoy some quality time with your family while dinner cooks. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special without the fuss.

Versatile Meal Options

One of the best features of these Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs is their versatility. You can serve them over a bed of spaghetti for a classic Italian meal, or load them into sub rolls for a satisfying sandwich. They also work well as an appetizer at parties, simply served with toothpicks and marinara for dipping. This adaptability makes them a go-to option for any occasion.

If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding different herbs or spices to the meatball mixture, or even incorporating vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers or onions for added flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

These meatballs are perfect for meal prepping. You can double or triple the recipe and freeze the extras for quick meals later. After baking, allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making them a convenient option for busy days ahead.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen meatballs, simply reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. Pair them with your favorite sauces or sides, and you have a homemade meal ready to go in no time.

Ingredients

Meatball Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 large egg
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

For Serving

Marinara sauce
Spaghetti or sub rolls
Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your liking!

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 the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined.

Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and browned on the outside.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over spaghetti or in sub rolls, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add spices like crushed red pepper or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.

Serving Suggestions

For a comforting meal, serve the Quick Oven-Baked Meatballs over spaghetti with a generous helping of marinara sauce. The rich flavors of the sauce complement the juicy meatballs beautifully. Don't forget to sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for that authentic Italian touch.

If you're in the mood for something different, consider placing the meatballs in sub rolls and adding some sautéed peppers and onions. This transforms them into a delicious meatball sub that’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.

Nutritional Information

These meatballs are not only tasty but also a source of protein, making them a filling option for any meal. Each meatball packs a punch with essential nutrients from the beef, while the fresh parsley and garlic add flavor and health benefits.

For those looking to reduce calories or fat, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. This minor change keeps the meatballs delicious while offering a leaner alternative. Adding oats instead of breadcrumbs can also boost the fiber content.

Common Questions

Can I use ground meat other than beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of different meats can be used for these meatballs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat's fat content.

What if I don't have fresh parsley? Dried parsley can be used as a substitute, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. You can also experiment with other herbs like basil or thyme to find your favorite flavor combination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with meatballs?

They are great with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or served over rice or in a salad.