Get ready to take your meatball game to the next level! Whether you’re a classic Italian-American cook or an adventurous foodie, we’ve got you covered with our list of 18 flavorful meatballs recipes. From savory and sweet to spicy and smoky, these mouthwatering morsels are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of Food Network’s most beloved meatball recipes, each one packed with bold flavors and tender texture. Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or looking to try something new, our lineup has got it all. From Spicy Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce to Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous, these recipes are sure to inspire your next dinner party or family gathering.
Spicy Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with these flavorful meatballs packed with spicy kick! This recipe combines classic Italian flavors with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 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, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. 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. Serve with marinara sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Experience the warmth of Scandinavian comfort food with these tender meatballs smothered in a rich and creamy gravy. This beloved recipe is a staple of Swedish cuisine, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy)
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix ground beef, flour, egg, milk, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into small meatballs and fry in oil until browned.
4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and flour to make gravy. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then add beef broth.
6. Serve meatballs with creamy gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki
This recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb meatballs with the cooling tanginess of tzatziki sauce, perfect for a warm summer evening or any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with 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 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Teriyaki Glazed Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Glazed Turkey Meatballs recipe. A perfect blend of sweet and savory, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, panko breadcrumbs, carrot, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) meatballs. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with Teriyaki glaze. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs
Elevate your party game with these sweet and savory BBQ bacon-wrapped meatballs that are sure to please a crowd. Perfect for tailgating, parties, or just a weekend snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 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, and cheddar cheese. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Wrap each meatball with half a slice of bacon, securing with toothpick if needed.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and brush with BBQ sauce.
8. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional meatballs, these Moroccan-spiced treats are served atop a bed of fluffy couscous. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, ginger, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
7. Serve meatballs atop couscous and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip
Get ready to level up your snack game with these mouthwatering Buffalo chicken meatballs paired with a creamy blue cheese dip. This addictive combination is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Blue Cheese Dip:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, Frank’s RedHot sauce, green onions, 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. Meanwhile, combine cream cheese, blue cheese, and ranch dressing in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
6. Serve meatballs hot with the blue cheese dip for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Korean Gochujang Meatballs with Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this recipe for Gochujang Meatballs served over a bed of fluffy rice. Sweet, spicy, and savory, these meatballs are perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, egg, and breadcrumbs. 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. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Pesto Parmesan Meatballs with Spaghetti
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines juicy meatballs, creamy pesto, and savory parmesan cheese, all served atop a bed of al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, 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 meatballs are cooking, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
6. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and pesto sauce. Simmer over medium heat.
7. Add cooked meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
8. Combine cooked spaghetti with reserved pasta water and add to the skillet. Toss until coated in sauce.
9. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with these bite-sized treats that combine the flavors of jalapeños and cream cheese. Perfect for parties or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cream cheese, jalapeños, and oregano. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands or a spoon 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. Serve with marinara sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Meatballs
Elevate your party with these succulent pork meatballs smothered in a sticky honey garlic glaze. Perfect for appetizers or main courses, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, 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 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar to make the glaze.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the glaze.
7. Return to oven and bake an additional 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta nights with this flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the comfort of meatballs with the health benefits of lentils. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine lentils, oats, carrot, parsley, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a large saucepan, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add crushed tomatoes and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Add meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Greek Yogurt Meatballs with Lemon Dill Sauce
Elevate your meatball game with this Mediterranean-inspired recipe that combines the richness of baked Greek yogurt meatballs with the tanginess of lemon and freshness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, egg, olive oil, honey, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Scoop 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, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Serve over the baked meatballs.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chipotle Beef Meatballs with Avocado Crema
Elevate your meatball game with this bold and creamy recipe that combines the richness of beef with the vibrant flavors of chipotle peppers and avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado crema (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, cilantro, olive oil, chipotle peppers, 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 for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with Avocado Crema (see below) and your favorite sides.
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Thai Peanut Chicken Meatballs with Noodles
Thai Peanut Chicken Meatballs with Noodles: A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the rich flavors of Thailand with a delicious peanut-based sauce and served over noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped peanuts
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 8 ounces rice noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, peanuts, soy sauce, curry paste, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, fish sauce (if using), and curry paste. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat. Serve over noodles.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
French Onion Soup Inspired Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with these savory bites that combine the flavors of French onion soup with tender meat. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons caramelized onions (see note)
– Cooking oil or butter for browning
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. 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 with beef broth and caramelized onions; gently roll to coat evenly.
5. Brown meatballs in a skillet with oil or butter for 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of garlic butter, succulent shrimp, and zesty zucchini noodles for a mouthwatering meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy evening or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, panko breadcrumbs, garlic, and butter. Mix well.
3. Add egg and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchini noodles and sauté in a hot skillet with a pinch of salt and pepper until tender.
7. Serve meatballs with zucchini noodles and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Under 30 minutes
Smoky Maple Glazed Venison Meatballs
Elevate your game with these tender and flavorful venison meatballs smothered in a rich, sticky glaze. Perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison ground meat
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine venison meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While meatballs are cooking, mix together maple syrup, smoked paprika, and chopped parsley in a small bowl.
7. After meatballs are done, brush with the glaze and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 flavorful meatball recipes! From classic Italian and Swedish options to international twists like Moroccan Spiced Meatballs and Thai Peanut Chicken Meatballs, there’s something for everyone. Plus, find vegetarian and vegan alternatives like Lentil Meatballs and Greek Yogurt Meatballs. With a range of glazes, sauces, and seasonings, these meatball recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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