18 Delicious Different Meatball Recipes Everyone Loves

Are you a fan of meatballs? Whether you’re a meatball newbie or a seasoned expert, there’s no denying the joy and satisfaction that comes from biting into a juicy, flavorful ball of goodness. From classic Italian-inspired dishes to bold international flavors, meatballs are a culinary delight that can be enjoyed at any time of day. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey around the world with 18 delicious different meatball recipes everyone loves.

From familiar favorites like Swedish Meatballs and Classic Italian Meatballs, to more exotic options like Moroccan Spiced Meatballs and Vietnamese Lemongrass Meatballs, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting homestyle dish or an adventurous culinary experience, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering meatball recipes.

Classic Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this classic recipe, featuring tender meatballs swimming in a vibrant marinara sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar (28 oz) marinara sauce
– Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball. Drizzle with a little olive oil.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
7. Remove the meatballs from the oven and carefully place them into the marinara sauce.
8. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for at least 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
9. Serve hot with your favorite pasta, garlic bread, or as a standalone appetizer.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Experience the warmth of Scandinavian cuisine with this comforting recipe that combines tender meatballs and rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and beef broth until smooth. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened. Stir in heavy cream.
7. Serve meatballs with warm creamy gravy spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce

Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful meatballs that combine the boldness of Thai chilies with the richness of peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick snack or as part of an Asian-inspired meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Cooking oil or cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, cilantro, garlic, ginger, chilies, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches or 3.8 cm in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with peanut sauce for dipping.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki

Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional meatballs!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)

Tzatziki Sauce:

– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with Tzatziki sauce for dipping.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Teriyaki Glazed Beef Meatballs

Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and savory Teriyaki glaze, perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup Teriyaki glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat Teriyaki glaze in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with warm Teriyaki glaze. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh green onions.

Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes

Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous

Discover the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this aromatic meatball recipe, perfectly paired with fluffy couscous. This dish is a delightful combination of tender meat, exotic spices, and comforting grains.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
7. Serve meatballs over couscous, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip

Elevate your game day snacks or party appetizers with these addictive Buffalo chicken meatballs and a tangy blue cheese dip. Perfect for satisfying your cravings.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Blue Cheese Dip:

– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles
– 1 tablespoon sour cream
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and green onions. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, mix cream cheese, blue cheese crumbles, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
6. Serve warm meatballs with blue cheese dip and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including prep time)

Mexican Chipotle Meatballs in Chipotle Sauce

Elevate your meatball game with this spicy and flavorful Mexican-inspired recipe. Chipotle peppers add a deep, smoky heat to these juicy beef meatballs served in a rich chipotle sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chipotle sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, heat chipotle sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
6. Serve warm meatballs in the chipotle sauce.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Korean Gochujang Meatballs with Rice

Combine the bold flavors of Korean gochujang paste and Italian-style meatballs for a unique and delicious twist. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup gochujang paste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, gochujang paste, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, and soy sauce. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot over cooked white rice.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs with Tomato Basil Sauce

This flavorful recipe combines the nutrients of lentils with the comfort of a homemade pasta sauce, creating a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine lentils, oats, Parmesan cheese, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic; mix until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. In a saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes and chopped basil. Simmer over medium heat for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve meatballs with tomato basil sauce and garnish with parsley leaves.

Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes

Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze

These flavorful turkey meatballs are elevated by a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, perfect for the holidays or any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup cranberries
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine cranberries, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Serve the warm turkey meatballs with the cranberry glaze spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pork and Sage Meatballs with Apple Cider Reduction

Elevate your meatball game with the harmonious combination of pork, sage, and apple cider reduction.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Apple Cider Reduction (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped sage, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare Apple Cider Reduction (see below).

Apple Cider Reduction:

– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp brown sugar

Combine apple cider, butter, and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce by half, stirring occasionally. Serve warm.

Baked Parmesan Herb Meatballs

A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, these Baked Parmesan Herb Meatballs combine the savory taste of parmesan cheese with the brightness of fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for baking

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, and basil. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Add the egg and mix until the meat mixture comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Use wet hands to shape into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches / 3.8 cm).
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Vietnamese Lemongrass Meatballs with Nuoc Cham

Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with these aromatic meatballs infused with lemongrass and served with a tangy nuoc cham sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Nuoc cham sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, lemongrass, onion, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with nuoc cham sauce for dipping.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Indian Spiced Meatballs in Coconut Curry

Experience the bold flavors of India with this aromatic meatball recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. These tender and juicy meatballs are infused with the warmth of Indian spices and simmered in a rich coconut curry sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Combine meatball ingredients; shape into balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
4. Stir in coconut milk, garam masala, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
5. Add meatballs to the curry sauce; simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

BBQ Glazed Meatballs with Coleslaw

Transform your meatballs into a sweet and tangy BBQ masterpiece, served alongside a refreshing coleslaw.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– BBQ glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Coleslaw mix (cabbage, carrots, etc.)
– Mayonnaise
– Apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano in a bowl. Mix well with hands until just combined. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
3. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with BBQ glaze.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare coleslaw by combining coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Toss to coat.
6. Serve meatballs hot with coleslaw on the side.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes (meatballs), 5-7 minutes (coleslaw preparation)

Mediterranean Fish Meatballs with Lemon Aioli

Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with these succulent fish meatballs, infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), finely chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon Aioli (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine fish, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, garlic, lemon zest, and egg. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with Lemon Aioli (recipe below).

Lemon Aioli:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Jamaican Jerk Meatballs with Pineapple Salsa

Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with these tender meatballs infused with jerk seasoning, served with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. This fusion dish is perfect for your next dinner party or game day gathering.

Ingredients:

For the meatballs:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the pineapple salsa:

– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, jerk seasoning, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Serve the warm meatballs with the pineapple salsa for dipping.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your meatball game with these 18 mouthwatering recipes from around the world! From classic Italian to spicy Thai, and from Greek lamb to Jamaican jerk, this collection has something for everyone. Each recipe features a unique twist on the traditional meatball, whether it’s a tangy marinara sauce or a creamy peanut sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping party appetizer, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.