Classic Meatball Recipe with Juicy Flavors and herbs

Paolo Romano
Paolo Romano
Published: February 9, 2026
Tags: Meatballs, Italian, Comfort Food, Dinner, Family Favorite

Meatballs

Delicious, juicy meatballs bursting with herbs, perfect for spaghetti or subs.

Prep Time:20 minCook Time:25 minTotal Time:45 minServings:4Difficulty:Easy

These meatballs are a classic hit in our house — tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked with a lovely herbs and spiced kick. They’re versatile enough to serve over spaghetti, in a sandwich, or on their own with a side of veggies.

What makes these meatballs special is their juiciness and the mix of fresh herbs and spices that give them a vibrant flavor. They're easy to make from scratch and great for meal prepping too.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories:350 kcal
Protein:22 g
Carbs:20 g
Fat:22 g

Directions

  1. 1
    Parchment-lined baking sheet prepared for meatballs

    Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. 2
    Ground beef mixture with breadcrumbs Parmesan and herbs

    In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined.

  3. 3
    Raw shaped meatballs on parchment

    Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

  4. 4
    Oven-browned meatballs on a baking sheet

    Bake for 15-20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.

  5. 5
    Meatballs browning in olive oil in a skillet

    Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the baked meatballs and cook for 2-3 minutes to brown all sides.

  6. 6
    Meatballs simmering in thick tomato sauce

    Pour in the tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the meatballs are fully cooked.

  7. 7
    Saucy meatballs served over pasta

    Serve hot over pasta, in sandwiches, or with a side of vegetables.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef:1.5 lb
  • Breadcrumbs:1/2 cup
  • Parmesan cheese, grated:1/4 cup
  • Fresh parsley, chopped:1/4 cup
  • Garlic, minced:2 cloves
  • Egg:1 large
  • Salt:1 tsp
  • Black pepper:1/2 tsp
  • Italian seasoning:1/2 tsp
  • Olive oil:2 tbsp
  • Tomato sauce:2 cups

Tips & Notes

  • Don't overmix the meat mixture — it can make the meatballs dense.
  • You can pan-fry the meatballs instead of baking if you prefer a crispier crust.
  • Make a double batch and freeze extras for quick future meals.