Are you a meatball lover? Do you crave those tender, flavorful spheres of meaty goodness, whether it’s as an appetizer, main course, or even snack? You’re in luck! Meatballs are one of the most versatile and crowd-pleasing dishes out there, and today we’re celebrating their deliciousness with 18 mouthwatering recipes to try. From classic Italian-style meatballs with marinara sauce to spicy Thai meatballs with peanut sauce, we’ve got you covered for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, these meatball recipes are sure to satisfy. So let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of meatballs!
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe
This iconic Italian dish combines tender meatballs with a rich and tangy marinara sauce, perfect for serving with pasta, garlic bread, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, 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. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
7. Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or as an appetizer.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
A classic Swedish dish that combines tender meatballs with a rich and creamy gravy, perfect for serving with potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and flour to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve meatballs with creamy gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Thai Meatballs with Peanut Sauce
Spicy Thai Meatballs with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Add a flavorful twist to traditional meatballs with this spicy Thai-inspired recipe, featuring crunchy peanuts and a rich peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, curry paste, and brown sugar.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the peanut sauce by combining 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1/4 cup water in a blender or food processor.
6. Serve meatballs with the warm peanut sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Meatballs with Pineapple
Elevate your appetizer game with these tender meatballs smothered in a tangy teriyaki glaze, paired with caramelized pineapple chunks. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Pineapple chunks (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, and garlic; mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the glaze; return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve warm with caramelized pineapple chunks and chopped cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with these tender lamb meatballs served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Stir to combine.
6. Serve lamb meatballs hot with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip
Elevate your party game with these spicy and savory Buffalo Chicken Meatballs served with a tangy Blue Cheese Dip. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers!
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
For the blue cheese dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, egg, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form meatballs. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with Frank’s RedHot sauce.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the blue cheese dip by mixing all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
6. Serve meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (meatballs) + preparation time for dip
BBQ Meatball Sliders with Coleslaw
Elevate your slider game with this sweet and tangy BBQ meatball recipe, served on a soft bun with a refreshing side of coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 12 slider buns
– Coleslaw (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 2 tablespoons water. Brush the mixture onto the meatballs during the last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Assemble sliders by placing two meatballs on each bun, then top with coleslaw.
Coleslaw Recipe:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until well combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful Moroccan-inspired dish, featuring juicy meatballs infused with warm spices and served atop a bed of fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook couscous according to package instructions using water or chicken broth. Fluff with a fork.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs with Marinara
Elevate your meatball game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines tender beef, gooey cheese, and tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape 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 season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with marinara sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs with Tomato Basil Sauce
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful vegetarian lentil meatballs, served in a rich and tangy tomato basil sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato Basil Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine lentils, oats, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Mix well with your hands until the mixture is sticky.
4. Use wet hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Serve hot with Tomato Basil Sauce.
Tomato Basil Sauce:
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Korean Gochujang Meatballs with Sesame Seeds
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean gochujang sauce with the comfort of meatballs, topped with crunchy sesame seeds. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 tablespoons gochujang sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, gochujang sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, and sesame oil. Mix well.
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 for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and toss with toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Herb and Garlic Turkey Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes
This flavorful recipe combines the savory taste of turkey meatballs with the comfort of creamy mashed potatoes, all infused with aromatic herbs and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and salt to taste.
6. Serve turkey meatballs with mashed potatoes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Chipotle Meatballs with Guacamole
Elevate your snack game with these bold and flavorful Mexican chipotle meatballs, perfectly paired with a creamy guacamole dip. This recipe combines the spicy kick of chipotles with the richness of beef, all wrapped up in a deliciously crunchy exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Guacamole ingredients (avocado, lime juice, salt, and cilantro)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, egg, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare guacamole according to your favorite recipe.
6. Serve warm meatballs with a dollop of guacamole and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo
Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo: A bright and flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the zesty taste of lemon with the warmth of herbs and the comfort of orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until lightly browned.
7. Remove from heat and add lemon juice and chicken broth. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to coat the meatballs with the sauce.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet and Sour Meatballs with Bell Peppers
Satisfy your cravings with these tangy and savory meatballs that combine the sweetness of pineapple juice and the sourness of tomato sauce, all wrapped up in a flavorful package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine sweet and sour sauce and pineapple juice in a large skillet. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the baked meatballs to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
7. Serve hot with sliced bell peppers on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Parmesan Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
A flavorful twist on classic meatballs, these bite-sized treats are packed with the savory goodness of pesto and Parmesan cheese. Serve them over zucchini noodles for a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Zucchini noodles (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, pesto, Parmesan cheese, 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.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions.
6. Serve meatballs over zucchini noodles and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Meatballs with Mango Salsa
Elevate your appetizers with this flavorful combination of tender meatballs and sweet mango salsa, infused with the bold spices of Jamaican jerk seasoning.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Combine meatball ingredients in a bowl; mix well with hands or spoon until just combined.
3. Form into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango salsa ingredients in a bowl; stir to combine.
5. Serve meatballs hot with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Meatballs with Rice Pilaf
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines succulent shrimp meatballs with a savory rice pilaf. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Dot each meatball with butter and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice pilaf by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in cooked rice and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to meatball like a pro! This article brings together 18 mouthwatering meatball recipes from around the world. From classic Italian to spicy Thai, and from sweet and sour to savory Greek lamb, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting classic or an adventurous twist, these recipes are perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration. With options ranging from beef to chicken to vegetarian lentil, there’s no excuse not to try one (or all!) of these delicious meatball creations.
