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Close-up of bake and brown meatballs in a tray

Bake and Brown Meatballs in One Pan – Easy & Fast

These perfectly baked and browned meatballs are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—just the way every home cook dreams of. Made with a flavorful mix of meats, herbs, and seasonings, then baked and broiled for a golden crust, they’re ideal for pasta dishes, subs, or meal prep.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 16 meatballs

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

  • 1/2 lb ground pork

  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup whole milk

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1/2 small onion, finely grated

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Olive oil spray (for greasing pan or brushing meatballs)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

  • In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to soak.

  • In a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, grated onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan.

  • Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.

  • Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the mixture and roll into 1.5-inch balls.

  • Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

  • Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.

  • Switch the oven to broil. Move the tray to the top rack and broil for 3–4 minutes, turning meatballs once for even browning.

 

  • Remove from oven and serve immediately with your favorite sauce or side.

Notes

  • For leaner meatballs, substitute turkey for beef or pork, but add extra milk or a touch of olive oil for moisture.

  • To freeze: bake and cool meatballs completely. Freeze on a tray, then store in freezer bags. Reheat at 300°F for 10–15 minutes.

 

  • Serve with pasta, in subs, or as a protein-packed topping for salads.

  • Author: Amanda
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 servings
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: meatballs, beef, baked, easy dinner