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Easy Homemade Meatball Recipe (Freezer-Friendly!)

  • 22 hours ago
  • 2 min read

There's something comforting about a batch of homemade meatballs simmering away on the stove. They're simple, made with pantry staples, and can be served in so many different ways, from classic spaghetti and meatballs to meatball subs, soups, and casseroles.


One of my favorite things about this recipe is how freezer-friendly it is. Whether you're stocking your freezer for busy weeknights, prepping for postpartum, or just trying to get ahead on meal planning, these meatballs are a staple you'll be glad to have on hand.





Tray of raw herb-flecked meatballs on parchment, with a metal bucket of eggs beside them on a kitchen counter.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make with simple ingredients

  • Freezer-friendly (before or after cooking)

  • Great for meal prep

  • Family-friendly

  • Perfect with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or on sandwiches

  • Made in about an hour


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Meatballs browning in a cast-iron skillet on a stovetop, with more uncooked meatballs on a tray nearby in a home kitchen.

Easy Homemade Meatball Recipe


Ingredients You’ll Need

Makes about 35 meatballs, depending on size.


2 lb ground meat

1 cup breadcrumbs

½ cup milk

½ cup grated Parmesan

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp onion powder

2 eggs

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.

  2. Roll into evenly sized meatballs (about 1½ inches each).

  3. Place on a baking sheet or plate and chill for 30 minutes.


Bake

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches:

  • 160°F (71°C) for beef, pork, or veal

  • 165°F (74°C) for chicken or turkey

Pan-Fry

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.

Simmer in Sauce

Brown the meatballs first if desired, then add them to your favorite pasta sauce and simmer until fully cooked.


Freezer Instructions:

Freeze Uncooked

Arrange the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and store for up to 3 months.

To cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or bake from frozen, adding several extra minutes to the cooking time.

Freeze Cooked

Allow cooked meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to freezer bags or airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat in the oven, microwave, or simmer directly in your favorite sauce until heated through.


Blue bowl of meat, egg yolk, herbs, spices, and cheese on a cutting board, with egg racks and a window behind.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.


Tips for the Best Meatballs

  • Mix everything until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.

  • Chilling before cooking helps them keep their shape.

  • Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs.

  • Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor.

  • Browning before simmering adds extra richness, but it's optional.


The Recipe:



Did you try making this Easy Homemade Meatball Recipe? We’d love to see your creations! Tag us on Instagram at Thesproutinghomestead or leave a comment below to let us know how they turned out. Happy snacking!

 
 
 
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