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Juicy Meatballs Recipe Easy Tender Flavorful Homemade Meatballs That Stretch Twice

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This easy homemade meatballs recipe delivers juicy, tender, and flavorful meatballs that double in size with a perfect balance of seasoning and moisture. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine milk and egg; whisk gently until blended (about 1 minute).
  2. Add breadcrumbs to the milk and egg mixture; let soak for 5 minutes to absorb liquid.
  3. While soaking, mince garlic and dice onion finely.
  4. Gently fold ground beef, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and oregano into soaked breadcrumbs. Mix just until evenly combined (2-3 minutes).
  5. Shape mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs using hands or a small ice cream scoop for consistent size.
  6. Place formed meatballs on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
  7. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs without crowding and brown on all sides for 8-10 minutes, turning gently.
  8. Lower heat to medium-low, cover skillet, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Serve immediately, spooning pan juices over the meatballs.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid dense meatballs. Soak breadcrumbs in milk and egg mixture for moisture retention. Rest meatballs in the fridge before cooking to help them hold shape. Use a scoop for consistent size. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing. Baking at 400°F for 15-20 minutes is a good alternative to frying.

Nutrition

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