Best Oven Baked Meatballs – Juicy, Tender, and Packed with Flavor
There’s something deeply comforting about a pan of meatballs coming out of the oven, perfectly browned, smelling of garlic, herbs, and rich savory goodness. These best oven baked meatballs are everything a meatball should be: juicy on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and full of classic flavor that works just as beautifully over pasta as it does tucked into a warm sandwich or served as an appetizer.
Oven baking meatballs is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to make them. There’s no standing over the stove, no flipping or splattering oil, and no worrying about uneven cooking. Instead, the oven does all the work, gently cooking the meatballs evenly while allowing them to develop a beautiful golden exterior. It’s the kind of method that makes homemade meatballs feel approachable, even on busy weeknights.
What truly sets this recipe apart is the balance of ingredients. Breadcrumbs and eggs keep the meatballs tender, Parmesan adds savory depth, and a simple blend of garlic and seasonings brings everything together without overpowering the meat. Whether you’re making them for Sunday dinner, meal prep, or a cozy family gathering, these oven baked meatballs are a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or half beef, half pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 1–2 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground meat, egg, Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and olive oil to the bowl.
- Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches each, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and rest for a few minutes before serving.
Best Oven Baked Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet.
- Mix breadcrumbs and milk, then add remaining ingredients.
- Form into meatballs and arrange on baking sheet.
- Bake until cooked through and lightly browned.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overmix the meat; gentle mixing keeps meatballs tender.
- Using a mix of meats adds extra juiciness and flavor.
- For deeper browning, broil the meatballs for the final 2 minutes.
Variations
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap breadcrumbs for panko for a lighter texture.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over spaghetti with marinara, in meatball subs, alongside mashed potatoes, or as an appetizer with dipping sauce.
Storage Information
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they reheat beautifully and are perfect for meal prep.
How do I know they’re done? Meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
History / Fun Facts
Meatballs have been enjoyed across cultures for centuries, with each cuisine putting its own spin on seasoning, meat blends, and cooking methods.
