How to Cook Meatballs in Oven: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to prepare meatballs? Look no further than cooking them in the oven! Oven-baked meatballs are not only simple to make, but they are also juicy and full of flavor. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking meatballs in the oven step-by-step, including the ingredients, preparation, cooking time, and serving suggestions.

Ingredients

To make meatballs in the oven, you only need a few ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens. They include:

– 1 pound ground beef or a combination of beef and pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley (if using). Mix until everything is well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1-2 inches in diameter. You can use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to make them uniform in size.
4. Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or sprayed with cooking spray. Make sure to leave some space between the meatballs to allow for even cooking.

Cooking Time

Cooking time for meatballs in the oven varies depending on their size and your desired level of doneness. As a general rule, bake them in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer to check if they are done.

Serving Suggestions

Meatballs in the oven can be served in a variety of ways. They make a perfect appetizer, main course, or even a snack. Here are some serving suggestions:

– Serve them on top of spaghetti with your favorite tomato sauce.
– Make a meatball sub by placing them in a hoagie roll with melted cheese and marinara sauce.
– Serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks and a dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard.

LSI Keywords

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oven-baked meatballs

ground beef and pork

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tomato sauce

dipping sauce

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even lamb can be used instead of beef.

Q: Do I have to use breadcrumbs?

A: Breadcrumbs help give the meatballs their texture and helps bind them together. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or even oatmeal instead.

Q: Can I freeze cooked meatballs?

A: Yes, cooked meatballs freeze very well. Once they are cooled, you can store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight or in the microwave on low power.

Now that you know how to make delicious and juicy meatballs in the oven, it’s time to get cooking! With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of preparation, you can impress your guests or satisfy your hunger in no time. Enjoy!