20 Meatball Recipes That Will Make Your Taste Buds Dance with Joy

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Meatball Recipes

Meatballs are a classic comfort food loved by many. They’re easy to make and can be served in countless ways. You can create tender, flavorful meatballs using a mix of ground meats like beef, pork, and veal. Adding fresh bread crumbs, cheese, eggs, and herbs helps bind the mixture and adds extra taste.

You can cook meatballs by frying, baking, or simmering in sauce. They’re great on their own, with pasta, or in sandwiches. You can even use different sauces to change up the flavor, from traditional marinara to BBQ or Thai curry. With so many options, meatballs are a versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Italian Spaghetti And Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need for this classic dish:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 4 cups marinara sauce

Directions:

  1. Mix the ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, cheese, eggs, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  2. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

  3. Brown the meatballs in a large skillet over medium heat, about 2 minutes per side.

  4. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 30 minutes.

  5. While the meatballs cook, boil the spaghetti according to package instructions.

  6. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

  7. Add the meatballs and sauce to the pasta. Toss gently to combine.

  8. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top if you like.

Enjoy your homemade Italian spaghetti and meatballs!

Swedish Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need to make tasty Swedish meatballs:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Now let’s make these delicious meatballs:

  1. Mix the ground meats, breadcrumbs, milk, grated onion, egg, and spices in a bowl.

  2. Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in size.

  3. Melt butter in a pan and brown the meatballs on all sides. Set them aside.

  4. In the same pan, whisk flour into the remaining butter until it browns.

  5. Slowly stir in beef broth and cream. Add Worcestershire sauce and mustard.

  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring until it thickens.

  7. Return the meatballs to the pan and simmer for 1-2 minutes.

Your Swedish meatballs are ready! Serve them over noodles or with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Turkish Kofte

You’ll need these ingredients to make delicious Turkish kofte:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now for the easy directions:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Use your hands to knead everything together well.

  2. Shape the mixture into small oval patties about 2 inches long.

  3. Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat.

  4. Cook the kofte for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.

  5. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

For extra flavor, you can grill the kofte instead of pan-frying. The smoky taste is amazing! Try serving them with grilled tomatoes and peppers too.

Greek Keftedes

Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty Greek meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

Now, let’s make the keftedes:

  1. Mix all ingredients except olive oil in a large bowl.

  2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.

  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  4. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).

  5. Remove cooked meatballs and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

You can serve your keftedes hot or at room temperature. They’re great with tzatziki sauce and pita bread. Enjoy your homemade Greek meatballs!

Chinese Lion’s Head Meatballs

You’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground pork (70-80% lean)
  • 2 chopped scallions
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
See also  20 Pork Loin Recipes That Will Make Your Taste Buds Dance with Joy

To make these tasty meatballs:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Stir in one direction to combine well.

  2. Form large meatballs, about 2-3 inches wide.

  3. Brown the meatballs in a pan with oil over medium heat.

  4. Pour in 1 1/2 cups chicken broth and bring to a boil.

  5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes. Flip meatballs halfway through.

  6. Serve your Lion’s Head Meatballs hot with some of the cooking liquid. Enjoy!

Vietnamese Bun Cha

You’ll love making this tasty Vietnamese dish at home! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 1 package rice noodles
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil)
  • Pickled carrots and daikon

Directions:

  1. Mix the pork, fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and shallot in a bowl. Form into small patties.

  2. Grill the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through.

  3. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.

  4. Arrange lettuce, herbs, and pickled veggies on a plate.

  5. Add the cooked noodles and grilled pork patties.

  6. Serve with a side of dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar.

Enjoy your homemade Bun Cha! The juicy pork patties pair perfectly with the fresh herbs and tangy pickles. It’s a light and refreshing meal that’s perfect for warm days.

Moroccan Kefta Tagine

You’ll need these ingredients for your Moroccan meatball tagine:

  • 1 pound ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3-4 eggs (optional)

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Mix the meat, half the onion, herbs, and spices in a bowl. Shape into small meatballs.

  2. Heat oil in a tagine or large pan. Add the rest of the onion and cook until soft.

  3. Add tomatoes and simmer for 15-20 minutes to make a sauce.

  4. Gently place the meatballs in the sauce. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes.

  5. If you want, crack eggs between the meatballs. Cook for another 3-5 minutes.

Your Moroccan Kefta Tagine is ready! Serve it hot with bread to soak up the tasty sauce.

Spanish Albondigas

You’ll need these ingredients for tasty Spanish meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

For the sauce:

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup beef stock
  • 1/4 cup red wine
  • 1 tsp paprika

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Mix the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  2. Form small meatballs about the size of walnuts.

  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the meatballs on all sides. Set them aside.

  4. In the same pan, sauté the onion until soft.

  5. Add tomatoes, stock, wine, and paprika. Bring to a simmer.

  6. Return meatballs to the pan and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes.

  7. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Spanish albondigas!

Thai Sweet Chili Meatballs

You’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • Oil spray

For the sauce:

  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup water

Directions:

  1. Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.

  2. Mix all meatball ingredients in a bowl. Use your hands to combine well.

  3. Form small meatballs and place them on the baking sheet. Spray lightly with oil.

  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through.

  5. While meatballs cook, make the sauce. Mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and water in a pan.

  6. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes until it thickens a bit.

  7. Take meatballs out of the oven and toss them in the warm sauce.

Your Thai Sweet Chili Meatballs are ready to enjoy! Serve them as an appetizer or with rice for a main dish.

BBQ Glazed Meatballs

You’ll love these tasty BBQ glazed meatballs! They’re perfect for a party or family dinner.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke

Now let’s make them:

  1. Mix the beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.

  3. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

  4. While the meatballs bake, mix BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and liquid smoke in a pot. Heat and stir until combined.

  5. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the sauce and stir gently to coat.

  6. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

See also  Carrot Muffins

Your BBQ glazed meatballs are ready to serve! Enjoy them on their own or with rice or pasta.

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the coating:

  • 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Now, let’s make these tasty meatballs!

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, blue cheese, egg, 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  3. Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in size. Place them on the baking sheet.

  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

  5. While the meatballs are baking, mix 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce with melted butter in a bowl.

  6. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the sauce mixture to coat evenly.

Your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are ready to serve! They’re perfect for game day snacks or a fun weeknight dinner. Enjoy them with some ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.

Teriyaki Meatballs

You’ll love these tasty teriyaki meatballs! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Directions:

  1. Mix the meat, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Shape into small meatballs.

  2. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.

  3. While meatballs cook, make the sauce. Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and 1 cup water in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer.

  4. Mix cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water. Stir into the simmering sauce until it thickens.

  5. Pour the sauce over the cooked meatballs and toss to coat. Serve hot and enjoy!

Porcupine Meatballs

You’ll need these ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup uncooked rice
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Mix the beef, rice, onion, egg, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Shape into 1-inch balls.

  2. Brown the meatballs in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.

  3. In a separate bowl, stir together the tomato sauce, water, and brown sugar.

  4. Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the skillet.

  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for about 45 minutes.

  6. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.

Your porcupine meatballs are ready when the rice is tender and has poked through the meat, giving them their signature “spiky” look.

Serve these tasty meatballs hot and enjoy your comforting meal!

French Onion Soup Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon onion soup mix
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s make these tasty meatballs!

  1. Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.

  2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1.5 inches each.

  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and brown the meatballs on all sides.

  4. Remove the meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, cook the sliced onions until caramelized.

  5. Add the beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the onions. Bring to a boil.

  6. Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

  7. Serve hot and enjoy your French Onion Soup Meatballs!

You can garnish with some extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if you like. These meatballs are perfect for a cozy dinner or as a party appetizer.

Stroganoff Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Egg noodles for serving

Now, let’s make these tasty meatballs!

Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form small meatballs with your hands.

See also  Reuben Sandwich Recipe

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Set them aside on a plate.

In the same pan, cook onions and mushrooms until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Pour in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the meatballs back to the skillet.

Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through. Stir in sour cream and Worcestershire sauce.

Serve your stroganoff meatballs over hot egg noodles. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Hawaiian Pineapple Meatballs

You’ll love these tasty Hawaiian Pineapple Meatballs! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice

Directions:

  1. Mix the beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs.

  3. Brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for about 10 minutes.

  4. In a separate bowl, mix BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice.

  5. Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the skillet.

  6. Add pineapple chunks and simmer for 15-20 minutes.

  7. Serve your Hawaiian Pineapple Meatballs hot and enjoy!

These meatballs are perfect for a family dinner or party appetizer. The sweet and tangy sauce will make your taste buds dance!

Mexican Albondigas Soup

Here’s what you’ll need for this tasty soup:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup uncooked white rice
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 potatoes, cubed
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped

Let’s make the soup:

  1. Mix the beef, rice, egg, cilantro, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form small meatballs with your hands.

  2. Bring the broth to a boil in a large pot. Add the meatballs carefully and simmer for 10 minutes.

  3. Add the tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, and green beans to the pot. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the veggies are tender.

  4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Your soup is ready to serve!

Enjoy your homemade Albondigas soup with some warm tortillas on the side. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or when you need some comfort food.

Indian Kofta Curry

You’ll need these ingredients for the meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground beef or lamb
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste

For the curry sauce, gather:

  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 large onion, blended to a paste
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2 teaspoons coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt to taste

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Mix the meatball ingredients and form small balls.

  2. Fry the meatballs until browned. Set aside.

  3. In a large pot, heat oil and cook the onion paste until golden.

  4. Add tomato sauce and spices. Cook for 5 minutes.

  5. Stir in yogurt and simmer for 10 minutes.

  6. Gently add the meatballs to the sauce.

  7. Cover and cook on low for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  8. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Your kofta curry is ready! The tender meatballs in a rich, spicy sauce will be a hit with family and friends.

Cranberry Cocktail Meatballs

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can cranberry sauce
  • 1 bottle chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions:

  1. Mix the beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Shape into small meatballs.

  2. Bake the meatballs at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through.

  3. While the meatballs cook, make the sauce. Combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a pan.

  4. Heat the sauce over low heat, stirring until it’s smooth.

  5. Once your meatballs are done, add them to a slow cooker.

  6. Pour the warm sauce over the meatballs and stir gently to coat.

  7. Keep the meatballs warm in the slow cooker on low setting until you’re ready to serve.

These tasty meatballs are perfect for your next party! The sweet and tangy sauce will have your guests asking for the recipe.

Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs

Ready to try a tasty meatless version of a classic? These lentil meatballs are perfect for you!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried lentils
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Cook lentils with bay leaf in vegetable broth until tender, about 20 minutes.

  2. While lentils cook, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.

  3. Blend oats in a food processor until powdery.

  4. Mix cooked lentils, sautéed veggies, oat powder, parsley, and seasonings.

  5. Form mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.

  6. Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet.

  7. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Enjoy your homemade veggie meatballs with pasta, in sandwiches, or on their own!