Easy Oven-Baked Mini Meatballs : Juicy & Flavorful Recipe

Oven-baked mini meatballs are the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. Whether you’re making them as a quick appetizer, adding them to pasta, or serving them as a party snack, these bite-sized delights are always a hit. Unlike fried meatballs, baking ensures even cooking while keeping them juicy and tender. Plus, they are healthier and require less hands-on time, making them an ideal recipe for busy days.

With a mix of ground beef and pork, these mini meatballs boast a rich, savory taste complemented by aromatic herbs and spices. They’re easy to customize, so you can adjust seasonings to your liking. Whether paired with marinara sauce, dipped in BBQ sauce, or added to a sandwich, these baked meatballs are a crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

Quick & Easy Preparation – These meatballs take minimal effort, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthier Alternative – Baking reduces excess oil compared to frying, making them a lighter option.
Juicy & Flavorful – The combination of ground beef, pork, and seasonings ensures each bite is packed with deliciousness.
Versatile – Serve them as an appetizer, over pasta, or in a sandwich.
Kid-Friendly – These mini meatballs are great for little hands and picky eaters.
Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly – Prepare in advance and store for future meals.

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Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 lb ground pork
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

Equipment Used

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or non-stick spray
Small cookie scoop
Oven

Directions & Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Shape the Meatballs: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the mixture and roll it into 1-inch meatballs. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving.

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Nutritional Information

Each serving (about 5 mini meatballs) contains:

Calories: 230
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fats: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 380mg

These meatballs are high in protein and contain a moderate amount of fat, making them a satisfying and nutritious choice. To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium Worcestershire sauce.

Prep Time & Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Meatballs: Add shredded mozzarella to the mixture.
Spicy Version: Incorporate red pepper flakes.
Herb-Infused: Use fresh basil and parsley for enhanced flavor.
Gluten-Free: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use only ground beef? A: Yes! Ground beef alone works fine, but mixing with pork adds extra juiciness.

Q: Can I freeze the meatballs? A: Absolutely! Freeze cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Q: What sauces pair well with these meatballs? A: Marinara, BBQ, teriyaki, or honey mustard all work great!

Pro Tips By Lynda

Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat can make the meatballs dense.
Use a Cookie Scoop: This ensures evenly sized meatballs.
Test for Doneness: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
Let Rest Before Serving: This helps retain juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with spaghetti and marinara sauce.
Add to sub rolls with melted cheese.
Enjoy as an appetizer with dipping sauces.
Pair with mashed potatoes and gravy.