Hey, you all! It’s Paula Deen, and today, I’m excited to share with you a fantastic meatball recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite – Ground Beef Meatball Recipe! These are incredibly flavorful and perfect for make-ahead and freezer-friendly meal prep.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on creating these mouthwatering Ground Beef Meatball.
Highlights:
- This recipe guarantees juicy perfection, thanks to the secret ingredient – soaked breadcrumbs.
- These meatballs are incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into pasta dishes, subs, or appetizers with various sauces.
- The recipe’s make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature make it convenient for busy days or planned meals.
- Sautéing the meatballs creates a beautiful golden brown crust, sealing in their juiciness for a flavorful bite.
- A family favorite, these meatballs have earned approval from kids and adults alike, making them a surefire crowd-pleaser.
More Recipes Resources:
How to Cook Ground Beef Meatball Recipe?
To cook ground beef meatball Recipe, soak diced white bread in water, mix with ground beef, beef, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and parsley. Shape into meatballs, sauté until golden brown, and enjoy the juiciest, flavorful result!
Ground Beef Meatball Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 slices of white bread (crusts removed, diced)
- 2/3 cup cold water
- 3 large garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finally chopped)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons oil (for cooking)
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Fork
- Ice Cream Scoop (with trigger release)
- Nonstick Pan
- Instant Read Thermometer
- Splatter Guard (optional)
- Baking Sheet
- Plastic Wrap
- Ziploc Bag
Instructions
- I'm excited to share this recipe with you, so let's dive in!
Step 1: Prep
- Trim the crusts off the white bread slices, dice them, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add 2/3 cup of cold water to the breadcrumbs, stir lightly, and set aside for five minutes.
- Meanwhile, finely mince three large garlic cloves and chop two tablespoons of fresh parsley.
Step 2: Mix
- Mash the soaked breadcrumbs thoroughly with a fork until they reach an applesauce consistency.
- Add ground beef, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Gently combine the mixture using your hands. Avoid over-mixing.
Step 3: Portion and Roll
- Use an ice cream scoop to portion the mixture into approximately two tablespoons for each meatball.
- Roll the meatballs with wet hands, aiming for about 1.5 inches in diameter.
Step 4: Cook
- Heat a large nonstick pan over medium heat and add two tablespoons of oil.
- Cook the meatballs in batches for about two minutes per side or until they develop a golden brown crust. Ensure they reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit in the center.
- Transfer cooked meatballs to a platter.
Step 5: Taste Test
- Cut a meatball in half for a quick taste test. Revel in the juiciness!
Step 6: Serving Options:
- Create a quick meal by simmering marinara sauce, adding meatballs, and serving over pasta.
- Make meatball subs or serve over mashed potatoes with gravy.
- Experiment with teriyaki or barbecue sauce for diverse flavor options.
Step 7:. Freezing:
- Line a baking sheet with plastic wrap, place meatballs in a single layer, and freeze until firm on top.
- Transfer to a Ziploc bag and store in the freezer for up to two months.
Step 8: Enjoy:
- Thaw as needed and incorporate them into various recipes for a quick and delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of meat for these meatballs?
My recipe calls for a combination of ground beef, but you can customize it to your liking. Try a mix of ground veal, turkey, or chicken for a unique flavor twist.
Additional Resource – Is ground beef healthy?
Can I substitute the white bread with another type of bread?
While white bread creates a moist texture, you can experiment with other bread types, like whole wheat or Italian bread. Remember that the goal is to maintain the breadcrumbs’ ability to absorb moisture.
How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to each other during freezing?
To prevent sticking, line the baking sheet with plastic wrap before freezing the meatballs individually. Once firm, transfer them to a Ziploc bag with a layer of parchment paper between each meatball.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of sautéing them?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs for a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, place the meatballs on a baking sheet, and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do I reheat frozen meatballs?
Thaw frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in a preheated oven or stovetop. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain juiciness.
Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of making them from scratch?
Yes, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs, but making them from scratch with the soaked white bread adds a unique texture and moisture to the meatballs.
How long do these meatballs last in the refrigerator?
Cooked meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you plan to keep them longer, freezing is the best option.
Can I make mini meatballs for appetizers using this recipe?
Adjust the portion size to create smaller meatballs for appetizers. Monitor the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through, and serve with toothpicks for a delightful appetizer experience.
Final Thoughts
My special Ground Beef Meatball recipe is a hit with my family and everyone who’s tried them. Whether making them ahead, serving them over pasta, or freezing them for later use, These Meatballs are a versatile and flavorful addition to your recipe repertoire. So, go ahead, give them a try, and get ready to be known for your mouthwatering meatballs!
Hello! I’m Paula Deen, a mother who loves to create memories in the kitchen. As a kitchen enthusiast, I love to do experiment with different kitchenware for daily recipes. This is my blog, where I’ll share my experience, knowledge, and reviews on various kitchenware and appliances.