Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a healthier alternative)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated. Optional: add dried oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, using clean hands.
- Cook the meatballs using your preferred method:
- Air fryer: Place in the air fryer basket, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), bake for 20 minutes.
- Simmer: Add to tomato sauce and cook until cooked through.
- Serve your delicious meatballs over pasta, in sandwiches, or as appetizers garnished with parsley or Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for extended storage—reheat thoroughly before serving.
- You can customize seasonings, add grated vegetables, or use alternative ground meats to suit dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Air frying, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Includes options for gluten-free, low-carb, and lean protein variations
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 230 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg