These easy homemade meatballs are perfect for a quick and delicious meal. They are juicy, flavorful, and can be paired with your favorite sauce for a satisfying dish.
Photos of Easy Homemade Meatballs Recipe
The ingredients for this recipe are mostly common household staples, but there are a few items you may need to purchase. The Worcestershire sauce adds a unique depth of flavor and might not be in every pantry. Make sure to grab ground beef and unsalted butter if you don’t already have them on hand.
Ingredients For Easy Homemade Meatballs Recipe
bread slices: Acts as a binding agent, keeping the meatballs moist and tender.
milk: Used to soak the bread, adding moisture.
yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked.
unsalted butter: Used for cooking the onions and meatballs, adding richness.
ground beef: The main protein for the meatballs, providing a hearty texture.
large eggs: Helps to bind the ingredients together.
kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
cracked black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity.
Worcestershire sauce: Brings a unique umami flavor to the meatballs.
One reader, Izak Bradbury says:
This easy homemade meatballs recipe is fantastic! The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, and the instructions are simple to follow. My family loved them, and they paired perfectly with our favorite marinara sauce. Will definitely make again!
Techniques Required for Making Meatballs
How to mince onions: Finely chop the yellow onion into small, even pieces. How to soak bread: Place the bread slices in a bowl and pour milk over them, allowing them to absorb the liquid. How to cook onions: Melt butter in a pan, add minced onions, and cook on medium-low heat until translucent but not browned. How to mix ingredients: Combine the milk-soaked bread, ground beef, eggs, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and cooked onions in a bowl and mix until well combined. How to form meatballs: Use a meatballer, ice cream scoop, or your hands to shape the mixture into balls about the size of a ping pong ball. How to cook meatballs: Add butter to a skillet and cook the meatballs on medium-high heat, turning them to brown all sides for a total of 4 to 5 minutes.
How To Make Easy Homemade Meatballs
These juicy homemade meatballs are made with ground beef and yellow onions cooked until perfectly seared. A perfect make-ahead dish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3bread slices
- ⅓cupmilk
- ½cupyellow onion,minced
- 2tbspunsalted butter,4 tbsp if cooking immediately
- 2lbsground beef,80/20
- 2large eggs
- ½tspkosher salt
- ½tspcracked black pepper
- 1tspWorcestershire sauce
Instructions
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In the bowl of a stand mixer add the milk to the slices of bread.
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Melt the butter in a pan and add the minced yellow onions. Cook them on medium-low until translucent but not browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
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In the bowl with the milk-soaked bread add the rest of the meatball ingredients including the cooked onions.
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Mix it on low until the bread is broken apart and the meat is combined with the ingredients.
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Using a meatballer, ice cream scoop or hands scoop them into balls about the size of a ping pong ball. Freeze on a cookie sheet if possible.
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If cooking immediately, add the rest of the butter to the skillet and cook on medium-high on all sides for a total of 4 to 5 minutes.
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Remove the meatballs from the pan and serve with preferred sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: 74.32kcal
- Fat: 5.49g
- Saturated Fat: 2.22g
- Trans Fat: 0.29g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.28g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.22g
- Carbohydrates: 1.41g
- Fiber: 0.13g
- Sugar: 0.34g
- Protein: 4.54g
- Cholesterol: 27.13mg
- Sodium: 55.53mg
- Calcium: 11.63mg
- Potassium: 75.94mg
- Iron: 0.58mg
- Vitamin A: 10.72µg
- Vitamin C: 0.17mg
Technique Tip for Making Perfect Meatballs
To ensure your meatballs are evenly cooked and maintain their shape, chill them in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up and prevents them from falling apart during the cooking process.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Homemade Meatballs
Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the yellow onion and soak the bread slices in milk ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Quickly mince the yellow onion and mix the meatball ingredients using a food processor instead of a stand mixer.
Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze extra meatballs for future meals, saving time on busy days.
Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding meatballs to reduce cooking time and achieve a better sear.
Use parchment paper: Line the cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent meatballs from sticking.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Homemade Meatballs Recipe
bread slices - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar binding effect and texture to the meatballs.
milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a slight tang and helps tenderize the meat, similar to milk.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can enhance the taste of the meatballs.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a healthier fat option and adds a subtle flavor to the meatballs.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used to make lighter meatballs.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) work as a vegan binding agent.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same quantity.
cracked black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a slightly different but still complementary flavor.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a similar umami flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
Best Way to Present Homemade Meatballs
Serve smaller portion sizes: Form the meatballs into smaller, bite-sized portions to create an elegant and refined presentation.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped parsley and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a touch of color and sophistication.
Plate with precision: Arrange the meatballs in a neat, circular pattern on a pristine white plate, ensuring even spacing and symmetry.
Add a sauce base: Create a base of rich marinara sauce or demi-glace on the plate, allowing the meatballs to rest on top, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.
Incorporate texture: Add a small mound of crispy fried shallots or parmesan crisps beside the meatballs to introduce a contrasting texture.
Highlight freshness: Place a few delicate microgreens or basil leaves on top of the meatballs to emphasize freshness and add a pop of green.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that all components, from the ground beef to the butter and onions, are of the highest quality to impress the discerning palates of culinary professionals.
Create height: Stack the meatballs slightly to add height to the dish, making it more visually dynamic and appealing.
Balance flavors: Pair the meatballs with a small side of creamy polenta or truffle mashed potatoes to balance the savory flavors with a smooth, rich accompaniment.
Finish with finesse: Lightly dust the meatballs with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a touch of sea salt just before serving to enhance the overall taste and presentation.
How To Store and Freeze Homemade Meatballs
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for easy homemade meatballs:
- Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or developing freezer burn.
- To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freezing is the best option. Arrange the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the meatballs are frozen solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference later.
- Pro tip: Portion the meatballs into serving sizes before freezing, so you can easily thaw and reheat only what you need.
- Frozen meatballs will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw the meatballs overnight in the refrigerator.
- To reheat, place the thawed meatballs in a covered skillet or saucepan with your favorite sauce over medium-low heat. Simmer until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the meatballs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the thawed meatballs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
How To Reheat Leftover Meatballs
To reheat leftover meatballs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the meatballs loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Another option is to reheat the meatballs in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan and heat over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method works well if you want to add extra flavor to the meatballs by sautéing them with additional herbs or spices.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat the meatballs, as they can become tough and rubbery.
If you have leftover tomato sauce or gravy, you can reheat the meatballs directly in the sauce. Place the sauce and meatballs in a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method helps keep the meatballs moist and flavorful.
For a delicious sandwich option, slice the reheated meatballs in half and place them on a hoagie roll or baguette. Top with your favorite cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella, and place under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Add some sautéed onions and peppers for extra flavor and crunch.
Random Fact about Homemade Meatballs
A random fact about this meatball recipe is that soaking the bread in milk helps to keep the meatballs tender and moist, preventing them from becoming dry during cooking.
Is Making Meatballs at Home Economical?
This easy homemade meatballs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using basic ingredients like ground beef, bread, and onions, it keeps expenses low while delivering a hearty meal. The use of milk and eggs adds richness without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15 USD, making it an affordable and delicious option for dinner.
Are Homemade Meatballs Healthy or Unhealthy?
This homemade meatball recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High saturated fat content from the ground beef and butter
- Refined carbohydrates from the white bread
- Lack of vegetables or fiber
- High sodium content from the salt and Worcestershire sauce
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce saturated fat
- Use whole wheat bread instead of white bread to increase fiber intake
- Add finely chopped or grated vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the meatball mixture to boost nutrient content
- Reduce the amount of salt and opt for low-sodium Worcestershire sauce
- Bake the meatballs in the oven instead of frying them in butter to cut down on added fat
- Serve the meatballs with a tomato-based sauce rich in lycopene and pair them with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a more balanced meal
By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting meatball recipe into a more nutritious option without sacrificing flavor. Incorporating lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables will provide a wider array of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while reducing the overall fat and sodium content. As with any indulgence, moderation is key, so enjoy these healthier meatballs as part of a varied and balanced diet.
Editor's Thoughts on This Meatball Recipe
This meatball recipe is straightforward and accessible, making it ideal for home cooks. The use of milk-soaked bread ensures a tender texture, while the sautéed onions add a subtle sweetness. Worcestershire sauce introduces a depth of flavor that complements the beef. Freezing the meatballs before cooking helps them maintain their shape. However, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs like parsley for an extra layer of complexity. Overall, it's a solid foundation that can be easily customized to suit personal tastes.
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Why trust this Easy Homemade Meatballs Recipe:
This recipe ensures tender meatballs by soaking bread slices in milk, which adds moisture and prevents dryness. The yellow onion sautéed in unsalted butter brings a sweet, caramelized flavor, enhancing the overall taste. Using a stand mixer guarantees even mixing, resulting in perfectly combined ingredients. The addition of worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth, making these meatballs irresistible. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and straightforward instructions, ensuring a delightful meal every time.
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