Easy Homemade Meatballs (Classic Italian Recipe for Family Dinners)

There’s nothing quite like a plate of Easy Homemade Meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce — comforting, flavorful, and made with love. This classic Italian meatball recipe has been passed down through generations, starting from Donelle’s mom’s kitchen and now enjoyed by families everywhere.

These juicy, tender beef meatballs are seasoned with Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and garlic, then lightly pan-fried and simmered in a hearty tomato sauce. Perfect for pairing with spaghetti, serving in a sub sandwich, or enjoying on their own, they’re a family-favorite dinner that’s quick, simple, and irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 40 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
  
• Authentic flavor: Italian herbs and Parmesan add a traditional homemade touch.
  
• Family favorite: Even picky eaters love these flavorful, juicy meatballs.
  
• Versatile: Great with spaghetti, sandwiches, or as a party appetizer.
  
• Make-ahead friendly: Freeze extras for future meals!
  

Italian Meatballs Recipe

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Category

Main Dish

Cuisine

Italian

Servings

4

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Calories

526

Juicy, flavorful Italian meatballs made with beef, Parmesan, and herbs. A quick, easy homemade meatball recipe perfect for pasta or family dinners.

Author:

Guiseppe

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 teaspoons garlic powder (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 (28-ounce) jar marinara sauce

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Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and egg. Add bread crumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Gently mix until just combined — overmixing can make the meatballs dense.
2. Roll the mixture into 1- to 2-inch balls, depending on your preference.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 3–5 minutes per side, until evenly browned and no longer pink in the center.
4. In a separate pot, warm marinara sauce over medium-low heat. Add the cooked meatballs and let them simmer for about 15 minutes to absorb the sauce’s rich flavor.
5. Spoon over pasta, layer in a sandwich roll, or serve with extra sauce for dipping.

Recipe Note

Chef Tips

• Don’t overmix: Light mixing keeps the meatballs tender and juicy.
  
• Try baking: For a lighter version, bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before simmering in sauce.
  
• Add moisture: If your mixture feels too dry, add a splash of milk.
  
• Make ahead: Shape meatballs and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your homemade Italian meatballs with:
  
• Classic spaghetti and garlic bread for a timeless meal
  
• On a toasted sub roll with melted mozzarella
  
• With zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option
  
• Over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for comfort food bliss
  

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  
• Freeze: Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
  
• Reheat: Warm gently in marinara sauce over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep them moist.
  

Nutrition

Nutrition

Serving Size

1 serving

per serving

Calories

526

Amount/Serving % Daily Value

Carbs

45 grams

16%

Fat

25 grams

32%

Protein

30 grams

60%