When it comes to satisfying your hunger, there’s nothing quite like a plump and juicy meatball. Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or something more adventurous, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 mouthwatering meatball recipes. From Italian-American standards to global twists and flavor combinations, these bite-sized bundles of joy are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different cultures and cuisines through their signature meatballs. You’ll find classic dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, as well as innovative recipes that combine unexpected flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, these meatball recipes are sure to become new favorites.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of meatballs and explore the delicious possibilities!
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Get ready to transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic meatball recipe, served with a rich and tangy marinara sauce. Made with simple ingredients and minimal fuss, these tender meatballs are perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb 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
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, 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. Serve meatballs with marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Savor the classic flavors of Sweden with this hearty meatball recipe served in a rich and creamy gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner or party, these meatballs are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix ground beef, flour, egg, milk, breadcrumbs, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 40).
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Serve meatballs with creamy gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Thai Turkey Meatballs
Add a flavorful twist to your meatball game with these Spicy Thai Turkey Meatballs. This recipe combines the comfort of turkey meatballs with the bold and spicy flavors of Thailand.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, fish sauce (if using), soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and cilantro. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture 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 and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful Greek-inspired dish. These lamb meatballs are infused with Mediterranean spices and served with a refreshing dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the tzatziki sauce: 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup diced cucumber, 1/2 cup diced red onion, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small 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, prepare tzatziki sauce by combining all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerating for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve meatballs with a dollop of tzatziki sauce on top.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
BBQ Glazed Meatballs with Cheddar Grits
Elevate your game day gathering with this mouthwatering combination of tender meatballs smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze, served atop creamy cheddar grits.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the BBQ Glaze:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
For the Cheddar Grits:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl; shape into 20-25 meatballs.
3. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare BBQ glaze by whisking all ingredients together in a bowl.
5. Brush glaze onto meatballs during last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Cook grits according to package instructions; stir in butter and cheese until melted.
7. Serve meatballs atop cheddar grits and enjoy!
Cook Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Pineapple
Elevate your appetizers or snack game with these tender and flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs, infused with the sweetness of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, grated onion, garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, black pepper, and sesame oil. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with cooking spray or oil and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with pineapple chunks on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous
Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the warmth of Middle Eastern spices with the comforting simplicity of meatballs served over fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine meat mixture ingredients; mix well with hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Serve meatballs over couscous, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip
Elevate your game-day snacks with these bold and tangy buffalo chicken meatballs, served with a creamy blue cheese dip. Perfect for parties or gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, 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 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, mix buffalo wing sauce and blue cheese crumbles in a bowl.
6. Serve meatballs with blue cheese dip and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Korean Gochujang Meatballs with Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this simple yet satisfying recipe, featuring spicy meatballs and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape 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. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Serve meatballs over hot rice, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian take on traditional meatballs, these lentil-based bites are packed with protein and fiber. Serve them with a rich tomato sauce for a satisfying plant-based meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until a dough forms.
3. Shape 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 lightly browned on the outside.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat tomato sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot with your favorite pasta, garlic bread, or as a sandwich filling.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Meatballs with Alfredo Pasta
A rich and satisfying comfort food dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tender meatballs with a creamy Alfredo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, 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. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine Alfredo sauce and cooked pasta. Toss to coat.
7. Serve meatballs on top of pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Chipotle Meatballs in Adobo Sauce
Add a spicy twist to your meatball game with these flavorful Mexican-inspired bites. This recipe combines the richness of beef with the bold, smoky heat of chipotles in adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, 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 (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. In a saucepan, combine chipotle peppers and beef broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add cooked meatballs to the adobo sauce and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Sriracha Meatballs with Sesame Seeds
Elevate your meatball game with these Honey Sriracha Meatballs coated in toasted sesame seeds. The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, these bite-sized morsels are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Sesame seeds, for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, honey, Sriracha sauce, egg, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture 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. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. While still warm, roll each meatball in sesame seeds to coat.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
French Onion Soup Meatballs with Gruyère
Elevate your appetizer game with these savory meatballs infused with the rich flavors of French onion soup and melted Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a cozy gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Gruyère, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with butter and broth. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm, topped with melted Gruyère cheese and crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Meatballs with Mango Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica in this unique meatball recipe, paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, jerk seasoning, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, 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 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl. Season to taste.
6. Serve meatballs hot with Mango Salsa spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the rich flavor of turkey meatballs with the creamy goodness of pesto, served over zucchini noodles for a healthy and delicious twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, and salt. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchini into noodles. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve meatballs over zucchini noodles with pesto sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs with Maple Glaze
Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs with Maple Glaze Recipe
Elevate your party appetizers or family dinner with these sweet and savory meatballs wrapped in crispy bacon and topped with a sticky maple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– Maple glaze (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Wrap each meatball with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through and bacon is crispy.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the maple glaze by whisking together 1/2 cup pure maple syrup and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
7. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with maple glaze during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Butter Chicken Meatballs with Basmati Rice
This flavorful dish combines tender meatballs infused with Indian spices and herbs, served atop a bed of aromatic basmati rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1/2 tsp cumin powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cilantro, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
3. Form into small meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions with 2 cups of water.
5. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the baked meatballs and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Serve meatballs atop basmati rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Mediterranean Meatballs with Feta and Olives
Elevate your game day or dinner party with these flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meatballs, featuring crumbly feta cheese and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pitted green olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, olives, garlic, egg, 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 gently roll them to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Meatballs with Nuoc Cham
This recipe combines the savory flavors of meatballs with the bright, citrusy notes of lemongrass and the tanginess of nuoc cham, a classic Vietnamese condiment. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 stalks lemongrass, minced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Nuoc cham (store-bought or homemade) for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, lemongrass, onion, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and egg. 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 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with nuoc cham for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 mouth-watering meatball recipes, perfect for every occasion. From classic Italian meatballs with marinara sauce to spicy Thai turkey meatballs, and from Greek lamb meatballs with tzatziki to vegetarian lentil meatballs with tomato sauce, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of pasta or a flavorful appetizer, these recipes are sure to impress. With their bold flavors and variety of international twists, you’ll never get bored with the same old meatball recipe again.
