Classic Meatball Recipe with Juicy Flavors and herbs

Published: February 9, 2026
Jimmy JohnsonJimmy Johnson
Tags: Meatballs, Italian, Comfort Food, Dinner, Family Favorite

Meatballs

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.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.