When it comes to quick and delicious meals, frozen meatballs are a game-changer. With their savory flavor and ease of preparation, they can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic spaghetti and meatballs to innovative twists like BBQ sliders and stuffed peppers. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that feature frozen meatballs as the star ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a comforting casserole, a satisfying sub sandwich, or a flavorful stir-fry, these ideas are sure to inspire your next meal. So go ahead, get creative with those meatballs, and enjoy the ease and convenience of cooking up a storm in no time!
Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of homemade spaghetti and meatballs with a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 12 ounces spaghetti
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add garlic, breadcrumbs, and egg to the skillet, stirring until combined.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked spaghetti, meatball mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball Sub Sandwiches
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic meatball sub sandwich recipe, packed with juicy beef meatballs, melted mozzarella cheese, and a tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 slices mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, and breadcrumbs. 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 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hoagie rolls by placing them on the oven rack for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing meatballs on the rolls, topping with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
7. Serve immediately and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swedish Meatball Pasta
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of Swedish meatballs with the warmth of pasta, creating a satisfying and filling meal perfect for any occasion. With its rich beef broth and tender meatballs, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine beef broth and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add cooked meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Toss cooked pasta with meatball mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball and Potato Skillet
This comforting skillet dish combines juicy meatballs with tender potatoes, all cooked in one pan for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 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, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the meatballs.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
BBQ Meatball Sliders
Elevate your party game with these bite-sized BBQ meatball sliders that pack a flavor punch. With tender meatballs smothered in tangy BBQ sauce and served on toasted buns, these sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 12 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter) 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, toast hamburger buns on the oven rack.
6. Once meatballs are done, brush with BBQ sauce and assemble sliders by placing a few meatballs onto each bun.
7. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meatball Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy meatballs with sweet bell peppers and creamy melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well with hands until just combined.
4. Stuff each pepper with meatball mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with crushed tomatoes and olive oil.
6. Top each pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Meatball Stroganoff
This creamy take on traditional beef stroganoff adds tender meatballs to the mix, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into meatballs.
3. Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and onions over medium-high heat.
5. Add beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and paprika to the skillet. Stir in cooked meatballs.
6. Serve meatball mixture over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Meatball and Veggie Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry with meatballs and your favorite vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy day when you need a quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup of broccoli florets
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the bell pepper and broccoli to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return the meatballs to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Meatball Pizza Bake
Elevate your pizza game with this satisfying meatball pizza bake recipe! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering, it’s an easy and flavorful option that combines the best of both worlds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 12 oz beef meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Arrange meatballs on one half of the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Drizzle marinara sauce over meatballs and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Fold other half of dough over filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush top with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Meatball Rice Bowls
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful Teriyaki Meatball Rice Bowls, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Sweet and savory teriyaki sauce brings together juicy meatballs, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– Teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients and form into balls. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. Heat teriyaki sauce in a pan over medium heat. Add cooked meatballs and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble bowls by placing rice at the bottom, followed by a few meatballs, mixed vegetables, and drizzles of remaining teriyaki sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Meatball and Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these savory meatball and cheese quesadillas, perfect for a quick lunch or satisfying dinner. This fusion recipe combines the flavors of Italy and Mexico in a deliciously easy-to-make package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound homemade or store-bought meatballs
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
3. Add 2-3 meatballs on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch of four quesadillas.
Meatball Minestrone Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of Italy with the warmth of homemade meatballs. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl; shape into balls and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add diced tomatoes, broth, kidney beans, and bell pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Add meatballs to the soup and season with basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Meatball and Gravy Biscuit Cups
These individual biscuit cups filled with juicy meatballs and rich gravy are perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of biscuits (such as Grands)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup gravy (homemade or store-bought)
– Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the meatballs by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Roll out the biscuits on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into small squares.
4. Place a spoonful of meatball mixture onto one half of each biscuit square. Fold the other half over to form a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
5. Place the filled biscuit cups onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with melted butter.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.
7. Serve warm with store-bought or homemade gravy spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Meatball Parmesan Pasta
This classic Italian-American dish combines juicy meatballs with tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or penne)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes and marinara sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add cooked meatballs to the saucepan and stir to coat with sauce.
7. Combine cooked pasta with meatball mixture and top with melted mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Meatball and Spinach Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of meatballs, spinach, and a velvety Alfredo sauce. This comforting recipe is 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
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add heavy cream and stir until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Add cooked pasta, spinach, and meatballs to the skillet. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meatball Taco Skillet
A twist on traditional tacos, this Meatball Taco Skillet combines the flavors of Italy and Mexico in one delicious dish. This hearty skillet is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, diced avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
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. In a large skillet, add the diced tomatoes and cook over medium-high heat until heated through.
6. Add the tortillas to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds per side, until slightly charred.
7. Assemble by placing meatballs on top of tortillas, followed by shredded cheese.
8. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Meatball and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich mushroom broth, resulting in a creamy and satisfying dish perfect for a cozy night in. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 lb ground beef or pork
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook Arborio rice according to package instructions.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
4. Form meatballs with ground beef or pork, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
5. Brown meatballs in the same pan as the onion and mushroom mixture.
6. Combine cooked rice with warmed broth, stirring constantly. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until creamy.
7. Add browned meatballs to the risotto and cook for an additional minute.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Meatball Hash Brown Casserole
A hearty and satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines the flavors of meatballs, hash browns, and melted cheese for a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cups hash brown potatoes, cooked and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, tomato paste, and oregano. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pot, cook hash brown potatoes according to package instructions.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of hash browns, followed by a layer of meatballs, and topped with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Meatball and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the savory taste of meatballs with the crunch of broccoli, all cooked to perfection in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until softened, about 1 minute.
5. Add the broccoli to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
6. Return the meatballs to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until everything is well coated with the sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Meatball French Bread Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this creative recipe that combines the flavors of Italy and France. Meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 French bread loaf (about 12 inches)
– 1 package of meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup of marinara sauce
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise.
3. Place the meatballs on one half of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs, followed by mozzarella cheese.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the other half of the bread loaf on top of the filling and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious meal ideas? This article presents 20 frozen meatball recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From classic spaghetti and meatballs to innovative dishes like meatball quesadillas and taco skillet, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can create satisfying meals that will please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re short on time or looking for inspiration, these frozen meatball recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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