When it comes to satisfying your cravings, few things can compare to a hearty serving of tender, juicy meatballs. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian fare or adventurous international flavors, there’s a meatball recipe out there for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with 18 creative meatball recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds.
From Swedish meatballs smothered in creamy gravy to Spicy Korean gochujang meatballs that pack a punch, and from classic Italian meatballs served with rich marinara sauce to innovative vegetarian lentil meatballs with tomato sauce, we’ve rounded up the best of the best. So grab some breadcrumbs, get your hands dirty, and let’s dive into the world of meatball magic!
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Classic Italian Meatballs with Marinara Sauce: A timeless favorite that’s sure to please! This recipe combines tender beef meatballs with a rich and tangy marinara sauce, perfect for serving over pasta or as a standalone appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, onion, and garlic. 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 cooking, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat.
6. Serve the meatballs with warmed marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
This classic Swedish recipe combines the richness of beef meatballs with a creamy gravy, served over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 40) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add beef broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Serve meatballs with creamy gravy spooned over.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Korean Gochujang Meatballs
Spicy Korean Gochujang Meatballs: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Classic Meatballs!
Get ready to spice up your meal with this flavorful and aromatic take on classic meatballs. This recipe combines the sweetness of gochujang (Korean chili paste) with the savory flavor of beef, creating a unique and mouth-watering dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 tablespoons gochujang
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze
Elevate your holiday gathering with these juicy turkey meatballs smothered in a tangy cranberry glaze. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cranberry glaze (recipe below)
Cranberry Glaze:
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry glaze by whisking together cranberry sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
7. Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush with the cranberry glaze.
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe
Discover the flavors of Greece with these tender lamb meatballs served in a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the tzatziki:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well with hands or a spoon.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare tzatziki by combining cucumber, yogurt, feta cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir to combine.
6. Serve meatballs with tzatziki sauce and garnish with chopped dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip
Elevate your game day snacks or party appetizers with this flavorful and spicy combination of buffalo chicken meatballs paired with a tangy blue cheese dip. The perfect blend of heat and creaminess will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the blue cheese dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. 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 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine cream cheese, blue cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
6. Serve meatballs with warm blue cheese dip. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful Moroccan-inspired meatballs and a side of fluffy couscous, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Moroccan spice blend (containing cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and more)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups boiling water
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, Moroccan spice blend, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook couscous according to package instructions using boiling water and butter.
6. Serve warm meatballs alongside fluffy couscous.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Beef Meatballs
Elevate your appetizer game with these sweet and savory Teriyaki Glazed Beef Meatballs, perfect for parties or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef meatball mix (or homemade)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the meatballs to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush with the Teriyaki glaze.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
Discover the delightful combination of tender lentils and rich tomato sauce in this easy-to-make vegetarian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. In a separate saucepan, heat the crushed tomatoes over medium heat. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Serve the lentil meatballs with tomato sauce and garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
BBQ Pork Meatballs with Coleslaw
Elevate your backyard gatherings with these tender and flavorful BBQ pork meatballs, served alongside a refreshing coleslaw that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup coleslaw mix (cabbage, carrots, etc.)
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, 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. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Serve BBQ meatballs with coleslaw and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Albanian Fërgesë Meatballs with Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Albanian cuisine with these savory meatballs, infused with a hint of sweetness from the peppers. This classic recipe is a staple in many Albanian households and is perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the sliced peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with tomato paste. Roast for 15 minutes.
5. Add the meatballs to the baking sheet and roast for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, spooning some of the roasted pepper sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Chipotle Meatballs with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Mexican chipotle peppers with the richness of avocado crema, resulting in a unique and mouthwatering twist on traditional meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Avocado crema (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, olive oil, chipotle pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and 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 the avocado crema (see below).
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve with baked meatballs.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your appetizers or snacks with these savory and aromatic garlic parmesan chicken meatballs. Made with ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and plenty of garlic, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, 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 in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Meatballs with Jasmine Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic curry recipe that combines tender meatballs with fluffy jasmine rice and a rich coconut sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken or beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 2 cups jasmine rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix meatball ingredients and shape into small balls. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
2. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat curry paste in coconut milk over medium heat. Add fish sauce (if using) and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add baked meatballs to the curry sauce and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until coated.
5. Serve hot with cooked jasmine rice and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Albondigas in Tomato Saffron Broth
Discover the rich flavors of Spain with this hearty and aromatic recipe, featuring tender meatballs served in a vibrant tomato saffron broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups tomato puree
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small 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. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add tomato puree and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
6. Add chicken broth, saffron threads (with their liquid), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let the broth simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly reduced.
8. Serve meatballs in hot tomato saffron broth, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Meatballs with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your game-day gatherings or casual dinner parties with this bold and flavorful recipe, combining the warmth of Jamaican jerk seasoning with sweet and tangy pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the pineapple salsa:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, jerk seasoning, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden 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. While the meatballs bake, combine pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and honey in a bowl.
6. Serve meatballs hot with warm pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Indian Butter Chicken Meatballs with Naan
Experience the flavors of India with this simplified take on a classic dish. Moist meatballs infused with aromatic spices, smothered in a rich butter chicken sauce, and served with crispy naan bread – a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients; shape into small balls. Bake for 12-15 minutes.
3. Cook naan bread according to package instructions.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Serve meatballs with naan bread and spoon some of the butter chicken sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Herb-Crusted Meatballs with Red Wine Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of France and Italy to create a rich and savory dish perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, orange zest, 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. Meanwhile, heat the red wine, onion, and garlic in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the meatballs with the red wine sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your meatball game to the next level! Food Network’s favorite recipes are here, featuring 18 creative twists on the classic. From Italian-style with marinara sauce to spicy Korean gochujang, and from Swedish-style with creamy gravy to vegetarian lentil options, there’s something for everyone. Other mouth-watering variations include Greek lamb, buffalo chicken, Moroccan spiced, teriyaki glazed beef, BBQ pork, Albanian-style with peppers, Mexican chipotle, garlic parmesan chicken, Thai coconut curry, Spanish albondigas, Jamaican jerk, Indian butter chicken, and French herb-crusted with red wine sauce. Try them all and find your new favorite!
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