Easy Italian-Style Meatballs
Updated Dec 04, 2025, Published on May 13, 2023
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Meatballs are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed in countless ways—from topping a bowl of pasta to stuffing a hearty meatball sub sandwich. This Easy Italian-Style Meatballs recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavorful combination of ground beef and ground pork. It's easy to customize and works beautifully in a variety of dishes.
For a perfect pairing, try these meatballs with my San Marzano Tomato Sauce or my Quick & Easy Vodka Sauce.
Recipe Details
This Easy Italian-Style Meatballs recipe is super versatile! You can adjust the seasoning, swap breadcrumbs for fresh bread, or add red pepper flakes for some heat. I originally created this using leftover ingredients—I had ground beef and ground pork in my freezer, but you can use just one type of meat or substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage. For extra flavor, try adding fresh minced garlic or swapping Parmesan for Pecorino Romano.
Recipe Ingredients
See the full list of ingredients with exact quantities on the recipe card below.
- Breadcrumbs – I used Italian-style breadcrumbs, but if you're using plain breadcrumbs, consider adding extra seasoning.
- Ground Beef – You can use all beef instead of a beef/pork mix if you prefer.
- Ground Pork – Swap with Italian sausage for extra flavor! Use hot Italian sausage if you like a bit of spice.
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This recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner for your family or it would work well to cook up a big batch for a party. Whether you're serving them with spaghetti or using them in a sandwich, these meatballs are sure to be a hit!
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! If you enjoyed it, please consider leaving a rating and review. And don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or TikTok—I love seeing your creations!
Easy Italian-Style Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Italian Breadcrumbs, I used Italian breadcrumbs - add extra seasoning if using plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Dried Basil
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 lb Ground Beef, can use all ground beef
- 1/2 lb Ground Pork, can use all ground beef or use Italian Sausage instead
- 1 Egg, beaten
- 1/8 cup Heavy Cream, or whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, seasonings, and Parmesan cheese.1/4 cup Italian Breadcrumbs, 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder, 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder, 1/4 teaspoon Dried Oregano, 1/4 teaspoon Dried Basil, Kosher Salt & Black Pepper, 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumb mixture, beaten egg, and cream. Use your hands to mix until well combined.1/2 lb Ground Beef, 1/2 lb Ground Pork, 1 Egg, 1/8 cup Heavy Cream
- Form the mixture into 16 meatballs (about 2 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, until browned.
- If finishing in red sauce, transfer the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5–10 minutes. Otherwise, bake for an additional 5 minutes until fully cooked through.
Video
@carolbeecooks Quick & easy meatballs made entirely with leftover ingredients! I baked at 400 degrees for 20 minutes and simmered in the sauce for 10 minutes. Who wants the recipe?! #meatballs #easyrecipe
♬ original sound - Carolyn | Easy Recipes
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
