Are you tired of serving the same old leftovers every night? Do you have a batch of homemade meatballs taking up space in your fridge, but no idea what to do with them? Look no further! With these 18 creative leftover meatball recipes, you’ll never have to worry about getting stuck in a culinary rut again.
From classic comfort foods to international twists and innovative breakfast ideas, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or spicy, there’s a meatball recipe on this list that’s sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, get creative, and give your taste buds a treat!
Meatball Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy meatballs with sweet bell peppers for a satisfying and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place one meatball inside each bell pepper.
5. Drizzle the tops of the peppers with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
6. Serve hot with marinara sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Meatball and Cheese Sliders
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these bite-sized Meatball and Cheese Sliders! This recipe combines juicy meatballs, melted cheese, and soft buns for a deliciously easy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 slider buns
– Shredded mozzarella cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
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. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a few meatballs on each bun, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meatball Fried Rice
Elevate your Chinese-inspired dish with this hearty Meatball Fried Rice recipe, packed with savory meatballs and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 pound meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked meatballs; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Pour the cooked rice into the empty side of the pan; stir-fry for about 2 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Mix the rice with the vegetable mixture and add soy sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Meatball Breakfast Hash
Start your day with a hearty and flavorful breakfast hash featuring savory meatballs, crispy potatoes, and scrambled eggs.
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
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and season with salt and pepper. Pour eggs into the skillet with potatoes and scramble until cooked through.
6. To assemble, place meatballs on top of potatoes and eggs. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Meatball Pizza Topping
Elevate your pizza game with this easy-to-make meatball topping, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, tomato paste, oregano, 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 (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Spread pizza sauce over the crust of your favorite pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange meatballs on top of the sauce.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs.
7. Bake in preheated oven for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes total
Meatball Subs with Marinara Sauce
Get ready to devour a flavorful twist on the classic Italian sub sandwich! This recipe combines juicy meatballs, crispy bread, and rich marinara sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-inch sub rolls
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Provolone cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form meatballs into small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Slice sub rolls in half and toast.
5. Assemble subs by placing 2-3 meatballs per roll, topping with marinara sauce, and finishing with sliced Provolone cheese.
Cooking Time:
– Meatballs: 15-20 minutes
– Assembly: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Meatball Subs with Marinara Sauce!
Meatball and Pasta Bake
A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of meatballs, pasta, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the meatballs by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, cook the meatballs over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In a separate pot, combine marinara sauce and cooked pasta. Toss to combine.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of pasta mixture, followed by a layer of meatballs, and finally a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Meatball Tacos with Fresh Salsa: A Twist on Classic Flavors
Get ready to mix and match flavors with this unique recipe that combines the comfort of meatballs with the vibrant freshness of a homemade salsa. Serve these tacos at your next gathering for a conversation-starting meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh Salsa (recipe below)
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Fresh Salsa:
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Combine all salsa ingredients in a bowl and stir well. Serve with meatball tacos.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (including prep time)
Meatball and Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavor of meatballs with a colorful stir-fry, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With just a few ingredients and simple cooking steps, you’ll have a nutritious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes or until translucent.
4. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and mixed vegetables. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet and stir-fry for about 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Meatball Quesadillas with Guacamole
Transform classic meatballs into a bold and flavorful quesadilla, paired with a creamy guacamole for the ultimate fusion treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 large tortillas
– Guacamole (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 16-20) and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and top with 2-3 meatballs, some shredded cheese, and fold in half to form a quesadilla.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until crispy and melted.
7. Serve hot with guacamole, and optional toppings.
Guacamole Recipe:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Mash avocado in a bowl, then mix with lime juice, red onion, and garlic. Season with salt.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your comfort food game with this hearty Meatball Shepherd’s Pie recipe, a twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a separate pot, combine peas and carrots, mashed potatoes, and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter has melted.
6. To assemble the Shepherd’s Pie, create a layer of meatballs in a 9×13 inch baking dish, followed by a layer of the pea and potato mixture.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Add a twist to traditional stuffed zucchini with meatballs and melted mozzarella cheese!
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with two meatballs, placing them in the center of the boat.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
7. Top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Meatball and Polenta Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of Italy with the warmth of a classic American dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Form the mixture 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 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the polenta according to package instructions.
6. In a large casserole dish, spread half of the polenta on the bottom. Top with marinara sauce, followed by the meatballs.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and cover with the remaining polenta.
8. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Meatball and Egg Breakfast Sandwich
Start your day with a hearty twist on the classic breakfast sandwich. This recipe combines savory meatballs with scrambled eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bread for a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 4 slices of bread (toasted or untoasted)
– 2 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices if desired.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few meatballs on each slice of bread, followed by a spoonful of scrambled eggs, and finishing with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Meatball and Rice Stuffed Peppers
Enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the savory taste of meatballs with the convenience of rice-stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, egg, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with about 1/2 cup of the meatball mixture, followed by 1/4 cup of cooked rice.
5. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Meatball and Spinach Lasagna
A classic Italian-American dish gets a boost of flavor with the addition of meatballs and wilted spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
4. In a separate pan, wilt spinach with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
6. Spread half the ricotta cheese mixture, followed by half the shredded mozzarella cheese. Add meatballs and wilted spinach. Repeat layers.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Meatball and Potato Skillet
A one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this meatball and potato skillet is a satisfying meal that’s easy to make. Ground beef meatballs simmer with diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers in a flavorful tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Form into meatballs (about 12).
3. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Meatball and Bean Chili
Warm up with this hearty and comforting chili recipe that combines the flavors of tender meatballs, creamy beans, and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, 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 meatballs for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, and beans. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the baked meatballs to the pot and stir gently to combine. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get creative with leftover meatballs! This article presents 18 delicious recipe ideas to transform them into new and exciting dishes. From Meatball Stuffed Bell Peppers to Meatball Quesadillas with Guacamole, and from Meatball Shepherd’s Pie to Meatball and Spinach Lasagna, these recipes will breathe new life into your meatballs. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, there’s something on this list for everyone. Get inspired and start cooking with these 18 creative leftover meatball recipes!
