- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, milk, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all ingredients are well combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
- Form Meatballs:
- Lightly grease your hands with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them between your palms to form meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased with cooking spray, spacing them evenly apart.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
- Bake in Oven:
- Place the baking sheet with the meatballs in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
Step 4: Serve
- Optional Sauce:
- While the meatballs are baking, you can heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Once the meatballs are done, serve them hot with the marinara sauce poured over them, or on the side for dipping.
Tips for Success:
- Meat Selection: Use a combination of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh herbs like parsley for extra freshness.
- Storage: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
These easy meatballs are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, main course with pasta, or in sandwiches. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious homemade meatball recipe!