Italian Herb Baked Meatballs
Try this Italian Herb Baked Meatballs recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Italian Herb Baked Meatballs recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 1/2 cup italian breadcrumbs
- 1 pound lean ground beef (i used 88%)
- 1/4 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 small yellow onion grated (or minced)
- 2 tablespoons marinara
- Carbohydrate 11.7562639618987 g
- Cholesterol 11.9158726771255 mg
- Fat 1.20113532620548 g
- Fiber 0.897133078889914 g
- Protein 2.76558162223592 g
- Saturated Fat 0.321788088326383 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (1 1/2 tablespoon meatballs) (48g)
- Sodium 329.781583508363 mg
- Sugar 10.8591308830088 g
- Trans Fat 0.153001988051145 g
- Calories 69 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 375 degreesF.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix well, do not over mix or you will have tough meatballs.
- Using a 2 tablespoon scoop, portion out meat and place on baking sheet.
- After all meatballs have been scooped onto tray, roll into balls and place back onto the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes, until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- Remove and transfer to sauce or serve immediately.
- If you lightly coat your hands with olive oil before rolling the meatballs, they will form better and crack less.
- You can substitute dried herbs and spices for a quicker recipe: 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning for the fresh herbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder for the fresh garlic, 1 teaspoon onion powder for the fresh onion.
Italian Herb Baked Meatballs: A Simple Weeknight Dinner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of homework, extracurricular activities, and the never-ending to-do list. That's why I love recipes that are both quick and flavorful, and these Italian Herb Baked Meatballs fit the bill perfectly. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep time, and the oven does most of the work. I usually start by prepping the ingredients while the kids are finishing up their homework. Then, while the meatballs are baking, I can quickly assemble a side salad or warm some crusty bread. This allows me to spend quality time with my family rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Why I love this recipe:
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of fresh herbs – rosemary, basil, and parsley – creates a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful meatball. The addition of parmesan cheese and onion adds depth and richness.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and requires no special culinary skills. Even novice cooks can easily master it.
- Versatile: These meatballs are incredibly versatile. They can be served with your favorite pasta sauce, enjoyed as appetizers with toothpicks, or added to salads and soups for a protein boost. They also reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prepping.
- Healthy Option: Using lean ground beef and incorporating fresh herbs makes this a relatively healthy meal option. It's a much better choice than relying on processed, pre-made meatballs.
- Kid-Friendly: My children adore these meatballs. The soft texture and savory flavor are always a hit with the whole family.
Tips and Variations:
- Don't Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients. Overmixing will result in tough meatballs.
- Use Good Quality Ingredients: The flavor of the meatballs will greatly benefit from using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your preference.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
- Experiment with Different Herbs: Try substituting other fresh herbs, such as oregano or thyme, for a unique flavor profile.
- Make it a Complete Meal: Serve the meatballs over your favorite pasta, with a side of roasted vegetables, or with a simple salad.
These Italian Herb Baked Meatballs have quickly become a staple in our weekly dinner rotation. They're a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family enjoys, and they're easy enough to make even on the busiest of weeknights. So give them a try, and I'm confident they'll become a new family favorite!
Beyond the Dinner Table:
The versatility of these meatballs extends beyond a simple weeknight dinner. Imagine them nestled in a warm, crusty sub roll with melted mozzarella, served as a vibrant addition to a hearty minestrone soup, or even as a delightful component in a gourmet meatball slider bar for a party. Their adaptability is truly remarkable, making them an invaluable addition to any home cook's repertoire.
This recipe isn’t just about creating a delicious meal; it's about crafting memories around the dinner table. It's about the aroma of freshly baked herbs filling the kitchen, the happy chatter of family gathered together, and the satisfaction of sharing a home-cooked meal. These meatballs aren’t just food; they’re a symbol of warmth, comfort, and family connection. And that, to me, is worth more than any Michelin star.
