Hearty dinner Meatballs with savory ground beef and pork come together quickly for a satisfying family meal. Letting breadcrumbs soak in milk keeps them tender, while a gentle pan fry ensures a golden crust. Ready in just 30 minutes, these are ideal for busy weeknights when you want something classic and comforting on the table.
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Table of Contents
Ingredients for Meatballs
For the meatballs
- Ground Beef – Go for 80% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Ground Pork – Adds richness and tenderness to the meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs – Plain and unseasoned work best here.
- Whole Milk – Helps keep the meatballs moist and tender.
- Egg – Room temperature is ideal for even mixing.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated adds a lovely savory depth.
- Garlic Powder – You’ll want that garlicky goodness in every bite.
- Onion Powder – Adds subtle sweetness and flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning—don’t skip it.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground gives the best flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
For cooking
- Olive Oil – A good-quality oil for frying ensures a golden crust.
Cook Time for Meatballs with Breadcrumbs
I love how quickly these come together, especially on those evenings when everyone is hungry and patience is running thin. The prep is straightforward, and the cooking is even faster.
You’ll have these tender breadcrumb-bound meat orbs on the table in no time.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
This timeline is perfect for a weeknight, and if you’re looking for other quick ground beef ideas, you must try my ground beef tacos—they’re another family favorite that comes together in a flash.
How to Make Italian Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Breadcrumbs
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs soften and fully absorb the milk, creating a moistened paste.
Step 2: Combine the Meat Mixture
Add the ground beef, ground pork, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley to the bowl with the breadcrumb mixture.
Using your hands, gently mix all ingredients until evenly combined, ensuring the mixture is cohesive without overworking the meat.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it gently between your palms to form a 1 1/2-inch meatball.
Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, placing each meatball on a clean plate or baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the meatballs in a single layer, leaving space between them to allow even cooking.
Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are golden brown on all sides and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your choice of sauce or sides.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make these meatballs truly special. I love how a simple recipe can be adapted in so many ways to suit your mood or what you have on hand.
Here are my favorite tips for making your meatballs unforgettable.
- Flavor Swap: For a different twist, try using half Italian sausage instead of all ground pork. It adds a wonderful herby, spicy kick that’s perfect for meatballs for spaghetti.
- Diet Tweak: To lighten them up, you can use lean ground turkey instead of the beef and pork combo. I often do this, and they still turn out deliciously tender. For more lean protein ideas, check out my chicken burgers.
- Texture Fix: Chilling the formed meatballs in the fridge for 20 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape better and prevents them from falling apart in the pan.
- Storage Tip: These baked savory beef pork patties freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then store them in a single layer in a freezer bag. They reheat perfectly in the oven or a simmering sauce. They’re a fantastic make-ahead option for a holiday party meatballs platter.
If you’re serving a crowd and need another hearty option, my cowboy casserole is always a hit and can be made ahead of time too.
Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain, unseasoned)
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Equipment
- skillet
- spatula
- measuring cups
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs soften and absorb the milk.
- Add the ground beef, ground pork, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley to the bowl with the breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands to gently mix until everything is evenly combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it gently between your palms to form a 1 1/2-inch meatball. Repeat until all the mixture is used, placing the meatballs on a clean plate or baking sheet.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the meatballs in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
- Transfer the cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with your choice of sauce or sides.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
I always say that good food should nourish both the body and the soul, and these savory meatballs deliver on both counts. They provide a wonderful balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to keep you satisfied and energized.
Using a blend of ground beef and pork gives these meatballs a robust protein profile, perfect for supporting muscle health and keeping you full longer. The Parmesan cheese adds calcium for strong bones, while the herbs and spices bring antioxidants to the table without any extra calories.
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile per serving of these hearty meatballs:
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
While these baked savory beef pork patties are naturally lower in carbs, you can easily adjust the recipe to fit various dietary needs. For another protein-packed meal that’s equally satisfying, try my black bean burger—it’s a fantastic plant-based alternative.
If you’re curious about the cultural background of this beloved dish, the history of meatballs is quite fascinating and spans across many culinary traditions. For another family-friendly ground beef idea that’s always a hit, my sloppy joes recipe comes together quickly and pleases both kids and adults alike.
A Lighter Version of Italian Meatballs
Sometimes we want all the comfort of traditional meatballs but with a lighter touch, and I’ve found some simple swaps that work beautifully. These adjustments let you enjoy those tender breadcrumb-bound meat orbs without compromising on flavor or texture.
For a leaner option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of the beef and pork blend. I often make this swap for my health-conscious friends, and they’re always surprised by how moist and flavorful these turn out. The key is to not overcook them—keep that internal temperature at 165°F for poultry.
You can also reduce the fat content by baking instead of pan-frying. Place your meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. They’ll still develop a lovely golden exterior while being significantly lighter.
For another lightened-up family favorite, my spinach and feta turkey burgers pack plenty of flavor without the heaviness. And if you’re looking for more creative ways to use ground meats in healthier meals, don’t miss my ground beef rice bowl—it’s become a weekly staple in our house.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
Over the years, I’ve welcomed more and more friends with different dietary needs around my table, and I’ve learned that with a few thoughtful tweaks, everyone can enjoy these comforting meatballs. Whether you’re sugar-conscious, managing blood sugar, or simply looking for lighter options, these adaptations maintain all the heartwarming flavor we love.
For those watching their sugar intake, you’ll be happy to know that this basic meatball recipe is naturally low in sugar. The Parmesan cheese and herbs provide plenty of flavor without needing added sweeteners. If you’re serving them with sauce, simply choose a sugar-free marinara or make your own with fresh tomatoes and herbs.
For even better glycemic control, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones—they add fiber that helps slow digestion. You could also experiment with almond flour as a breadcrumb alternative for a lower-carb version that’s equally delicious.
Portion size matters too—I find that making smaller, bite-sized meatballs helps with portion control while still satisfying that craving for something savory and comforting.
How to Serve Meatballs
I’ll never forget the Sunday dinners of my childhood, where a huge platter of meatballs always took center stage amid laughter and shared stories. My grandmother would proudly bring out her masterpiece—golden brown and simmering in her signature sauce—and we’d all gather around like moths to a flame. Those memories taught me that how you serve food is just as important as how you make it.
For classic comfort, nothing beats serving these herb-infused Parmesan meat mixture spheres over a bed of spaghetti with marinara sauce. The way the sauce clings to each meatball and strand of pasta is pure magic. Add a generous sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and some chopped basil for a restaurant-quality presentation at home.
If you’re hosting a gathering, these make fantastic holiday party meatballs. Serve them in a slow cooker with your favorite sauce to keep them warm throughout the event. Stick toothpicks in them for easy grabbing—they disappear quickly whenever I set them out this way!
For a complete meal, pair your meatballs with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. If you’re looking for another crowd-pleasing pasta dish, my chili cheese pasta has that same comforting quality everyone loves. And for those who enjoy bold flavors, my BBQ steak pasta brings a smoky twist to the table that’s absolutely irresistible.
Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made plenty of kitchen mistakes over the years—we all have! Through trial and error, I’ve learned what separates good meatballs from truly exceptional ones. Avoiding these common pitfalls will help you create perfect pan-seared juicy Italian-style spheres every time.
The biggest mistake I see is overmixing the meat mixture. When you work the meat too much, those tender breadcrumb-bound meat orbs become tough and dense. Mix just until everything comes together—your hands are the best tool for this job.
Another common error is skipping the resting time. Letting your shaped meatballs chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking. I learned this lesson the hard way when my first batch fell apart in the pan!
Don’t overcrowd your pan when cooking. Give each meatball enough space to develop that beautiful golden crust. If you cram too many in at once, they’ll steam instead of sear. For more cooking tips that apply to various dishes, check out my ground beef tacos recipe—the same principles apply.
Finally, resist the urge to press down on your meatballs while cooking. This squeezes out all those precious juices that make them so moist and flavorful. Trust me, I learned from my grandmother that gentle handling yields the best results. For those interested in professional techniques, the innovative chicken meatball techniques from reputable sources can provide additional inspiration.
How to Store Meatballs
I’ll never forget the winter when my mother made six dozen meatballs for a family reunion—only to realize she had nowhere to store them all! We ended up using every container in the house, from mason jars to mixing bowls. That experience taught me the importance of proper storage techniques.
These herb-infused Parmesan meat mixture spheres store beautifully for busy weeknights. Let them cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—perfect for quick meals when time is short.
For longer storage, freeze your baked savory beef pork patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in sauce or in a 350°F oven until heated through.
If you’re looking for another freezer-friendly ground meat idea, my chicken burgers freeze wonderfully too. And for those who love meal prepping, my angel beef casserole is another make-ahead favorite that reheats beautifully.
Try This Meatballs Yourself
There’s something truly magical about shaping these oven-roasted garlic onion bites with your own hands. I still remember the first time my daughter helped me make them—her little hands carefully rolling the mixture while telling me about her school day. Those are the moments that turn recipes into family traditions.
I encourage you to make these holiday party meatballs your own. Add a pinch more garlic if you’re feeling bold, or try different herb combinations based on what’s fresh in your garden. Cooking should be an adventure, not a rigid science experiment.
Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just a regular Tuesday night, these meatballs for spaghetti will bring comfort and joy to your table. The aroma alone will transport you to those cherished family gatherings we all hold dear.
If you enjoy these, you might also love my best burger recipe for another family favorite. For something with a fun twist, try my crack burgers—they’re always a hit at gatherings. And if you’re in the mood for comfort food, my cowboy casserole recipe delivers that hearty satisfaction we all crave sometimes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best ingredients to put in meatballs?
The best meatballs start with quality ground meat, fresh breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and fresh herbs. I find that a blend of beef and pork gives the richest flavor, while the breadcrumbs help keep them tender. Don’t forget the garlic and onions—they add that wonderful depth we all love.
What is the secret to a good meatball?
The real secret is gentle handling and not overmixing the meat. Use your hands to combine ingredients just until they come together, and chill the mixture before shaping. This ensures your meatballs stay light and tender rather than becoming dense hockey pucks.
What are traditional meatballs made of?
Traditional Italian meatballs typically use a combination of ground meats, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs like parsley and oregano. Every family has their own variation—my grandmother always added a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. The beauty is in making them your own while honoring those classic foundations.
Is it better to bake or pan fry meatballs?
Both methods work well! Pan-frying gives you that beautiful crust, while baking is easier for large batches and reduces mess. I often bake mine for convenience, but when I have extra time, nothing beats the golden exterior from pan-searing. For another great baked option, try my tri-tip beef—it uses similar oven techniques.
More Comforting Family Favorites
If you loved these meatballs, you’ll adore these other hearty recipes that always bring everyone to the table.
French Onion Sloppy Joes – A gourmet twist on the childhood classic with caramelized onions and melted cheese.
Black Bean Burgers – Hearty plant-based patties with Southwest spices and creamy avocado.
Spinach and Feta Turkey Burgers – Light yet flavorful burgers packed with Mediterranean vibes.
Ground Beef Rice Bowl – An easy weeknight meal with savory beef over fluffy rice.
Chili Cheese Pasta – Comfort food at its finest with spicy chili and melted cheese.
BBQ Steak Pasta – Smoky grilled flavors meet tender pasta in this crowd-pleasing dish.
