The Best Homemade Meatball Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade meatball recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how simple and rewarding it is to make your own meatballs from scratch. First, the ingredients are basic and easy to find, so you can whip them up anytime. Second, they’re super versatile, pairing well with pasta, sandwiches, or even on their own. Finally, they’re freezer-friendly, meaning you can make a big batch and save some for later cravings!

Recipe

These homemade meatballs are a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for pairing with pasta, sandwiches, or enjoying on their own. This recipe yields tender, flavorful meatballs that are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)

1/2 pound ground pork

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
2. Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into 1.5-inch meatballs. This recipe yields about 20 meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, add the meatballs to the skillet, leaving space between them. Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
4. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite sauce or sides.

Notes:

• For baked meatballs, preheat the oven to 400°F, place the meatballs on a baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Meatballs can be frozen before or after cooking. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Equipment:

Large mixing bowl

Skillet or baking sheet

Measuring cups and spoons

Meat thermometer

Time:

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Cuisine:

Italian-American

Serving:

Serves 4–5 people (about 20 meatballs)

Nutrition

Homemade meatballs are a delicious and nutritious option for a meal. They provide a good source of protein and essential nutrients.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade meatballs with creamy pasta dishes like spaghetti or fettuccine, as they soak up the sauce beautifully. If I’m craving something simpler, crusty bread or garlic rolls make a tasty, no-fuss option. Both choices keep the meal hearty and satisfying, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy them just as much as I do!

Pasta Pairings

If you’re wondering what to serve with your homemade meatballs, pasta is a classic choice—but not all noodles are created equal. I love pairing tender meatballs with spaghetti for that timeless combo, but don’t stop there. Rigatoni’s ridges hold sauce beautifully, while fettuccine’s thickness stands up to heartier meatballs. For a lighter touch, try angel hair or linguine. My secret? Toss the pasta in a bit of the sauce before plating—it makes every bite richer. And if you’re feeling adventurous, swap tomato sauce for a creamy Alfredo or pesto. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Bread Options

Beyond pasta, bread can turn your meatballs into a satisfying meal. I love pairing them with crusty Italian bread or a soft baguette—perfect for soaking up the sauce. Slicing the bread and toasting it lightly makes it even better. Garlic bread is another favorite of mine; it adds a flavorful kick that complements the meatballs beautifully. For something fun, I’ll make mini meatball sliders using dinner rolls or brioche buns. If I’m feeling rustic, I’ll serve them with focaccia or ciabatta. Honestly, any bread you’ve got on hand works—it’s all about making the meal hearty and comforting.