Get ready to sink your teeth into the rich flavors and aromas of Italy with these 20 mouth-watering meatball recipes. From classic combinations to creative twists, we’ve got you covered for every occasion – whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively party with friends. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Italian cuisine and explore the art of crafting the perfect meatball.
From tender and juicy to crispy and cheesy, our recipes will guide you through the process of creating these bite-sized masterpieces. With an array of flavors and ingredients at your disposal, you can experiment with new combinations and create your own signature dishes.
In this article, we’ll be featuring a variety of Italian meatball recipes that cater to different tastes, dietary needs, and cooking methods. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or looking to mix things up, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
A classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, these meatballs are a staple of any pasta lover’s repertoire. With a rich marinara sauce and tender meatballs, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
6. Serve the meatballs with the warm marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Italian Meatballs with Arrabbiata Sauce
Elevate your pasta night with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of meatballs with the spicy kick of arrabbiata sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 dried red chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the meatballs with the arrabbiata sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Italian Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with these cheesy stuffed Italian treats, perfect for a cozy dinner or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Create a hole in the center of each meatball and fill with about 1 tablespoon of ricotta cheese.
5. Close the hole and coat each meatball with olive oil, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with marinara sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Italian Meatballs
Elevate your pasta game with these flavorful and tender garlic parmesan Italian meatballs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll each meatball to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting slow cooker recipe that combines tender meatballs with a vibrant tomato basil sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place in the slow cooker.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, tomato paste, and basil. Pour over the meatballs.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Baked Italian Meatballs with Mozzarella
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender meatballs with melted mozzarella cheese for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Top each meatball with a slice of mozzarella cheese and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Italian Meatballs with Fresh Basil
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a hint of fresh herbs, creating a delicious and aromatic meatball dish. Perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Italian Meatballs
Elevate your pasta game with these flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato Italian Meatballs. Made with a blend of beef, pork, and Parmesan cheese, these meatballs are infused with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with marinara sauce and your favorite pasta.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
One-Pot Italian Meatballs and Pasta
In this hearty and flavorful recipe, juicy meatballs simmer with pasta, tomato sauce, and Italian seasonings to create a satisfying one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands 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 Dutch oven or pot, combine pasta, marinara sauce, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low.
6. Add the baked meatballs to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Italian Meatballs
A classic Italian dish gets a gluten-free twist with these flavorful meatballs made with ground beef and pork, herbs, and spices. Perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Keto-Friendly Italian Meatballs with Zoodles
Savor the flavors of Italy with this low-carb twist on a classic dish. These meatballs are made with beef, pork, and Parmesan cheese, then served with zucchini noodles (zoodles) in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Spiralize zucchini and cook in olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
6. Heat crushed tomatoes in a saucepan over low heat. Add meatballs and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve meatballs with zoodles and garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Ricotta-Stuffed Italian Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with these creamy, flavorful bites filled with ricotta cheese and Italian seasonings. Perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Make a small indentation in the center of each meatball and fill with ricotta cheese.
5. Close the meatball around the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Italian Meatball Subs with Provolone
Italian Meatball Subs with Provolone Recipe
Savor the taste of Italy with this classic recipe that combines tender meatballs, melted provolone cheese, and crusty sub rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 4 Italian-style sub rolls
– 8 slices provolone cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the sub rolls in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble the subs by placing 2-3 meatballs on each roll, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and a slice of provolone cheese.
7. Place under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Italian Meatballs
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions and the tanginess of a homemade sweet and sour sauce, all wrapped up in juicy Italian meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Sweet and sour sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with sweet and sour sauce (recipe below).
Sweet and Sour Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth.
Pesto Italian Meatballs with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Italy with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, creating a mouthwatering appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– Olive oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pesto, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
6. Serve meatballs with cherry tomatoes and drizzle with additional pesto, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Wedding Meatballs with Spinach
Classic Italian-American comfort food, these meatballs combine tender beef, crispy breadcrumbs, and a hint of spinach for a flavorful twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
BBQ Italian Meatballs with a Twist
Elevate your meatball game with this unique blend of Italian flair and spicy kick! These BBQ Italian Meatballs with a Twist combine the comfort of homemade meatballs with the bold flavors of the American South.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1-2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, mix BBQ sauce and hot sauce in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the BBQ-hot sauce mixture.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Italian Meatballs
Elevate your pasta dishes with these flavorful meatballs that combine the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Buffalo Style Italian Meatballs
This recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo wings with the comforting warmth of homemade meatballs, creating a unique and delicious twist on an Italian classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or similar buffalo wing sauce)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the Frank’s RedHot sauce and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce mixture to coat. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mediterranean-Inspired Italian Meatballs with Feta
Elevate your meatball game with the bright, tangy flavors of the Mediterranean. These tender, flavorful bites are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, feta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 mouthwatering meatball recipes! From classic combinations to innovative twists, this collection has something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pasta dish, a flavorful sub sandwich, or a satisfying snack, there’s an Italian meatball recipe here that’s sure to please.