Dinner

Garlic Parmesan Meatballs Recipe

Name: Garlic Parmesan Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound of ground beef; ½ pound ground sausage; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 egg, lightly beaten; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon dry Italian Herbs seasoning; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano; 1/8 cup Italian breadcrumbs

ByMariam Harutyunyan August 13, 2025August 13, 2025

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and delightfully flavorful, look no further than these irresistible Garlic Parmesan Meatballs. Juicy, cheesy, and infused with aromatic herbs, these little bites bring together the best of Italian-inspired cooking—all in one pan. Every forkful is packed with a savory, bold kick of garlic and a rich blanket of Parmesan, making each meatball an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or you’re hosting friends for a gathering, Garlic Parmesan Meatballs are sure to steal the show.

Garlic Parmesan Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Garlic Parmesan Meatballs starts with an uncomplicated list of ingredients, but each one truly matters. These thoughtfully chosen components blend to create tender, savory meatballs with layers of flavor and a beautiful golden finish—so don’t skip or swap them if you can help it!

Ground Beef: The classic base, ground beef supplies rich flavor and juicy texture for every meatball.

Ground Sausage: Adds depth and a hint of spice, making the meatballs extra flavorful and tender.
Fresh Garlic Cloves (minced): The foundation of flavor; fresh garlic infuses every bite with warmth and aroma.

Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Creates incredible savoriness and a touch of saltiness—grate your own for the best melt and flavor.
Egg (lightly beaten): Acts as the binder, holding your meatballs together perfectly without drying them out.

Black Pepper: A subtle spice that brightens every bite—freshly ground if you have it!
Salt: Just enough to round out all the flavors, but don’t go overboard since parmesan is salty too.
Dry Italian Herbs Seasoning: Brings herbal complexity to the mix, enhancing every component.

Fresh Oregano (chopped): Lends an unmistakable garden-fresh lift—don’t skip if you love vibrant herby notes.
Italian Breadcrumbs: Lightly binds the mixture and gives the meatballs just the right, tender structure.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Meatballs

Step 1: Mix Your Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground sausage, minced garlic, freshly grated parmesan, beaten egg, black pepper, salt, Italian herbs, fresh oregano, and Italian breadcrumbs. Don’t be afraid to really get in there—using your hands ensures all those delicious flavors are evenly incorporated. The mixture should feel cohesive but not sticky.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Pinch off 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mixture for each meatball, rolling it gently between your palms. You want your Garlic Parmesan Meatballs to be uniform so they bake evenly. If the mixture feels too sticky, a dab of olive oil on your hands can help!

Step 3: Brush with Olive Oil

Arrange the meatballs on a plate and lightly brush each one with olive oil. This not only helps lock in moisture, keeping the meatballs deliciously juicy, but it also encourages that gorgeous, golden-brown finish in the oven.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Giving your oven a few minutes to reach temperature is important for that perfect bake: a hot oven seals in juiciness and helps those parmesan bits caramelize.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the meatballs to a large, deep baking pan—leave a little space between each one for even cooking. Slide into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the Garlic Parmesan Meatballs are just cooked through and lightly golden. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell absolutely irresistible!

Step 6: Serve

Once out of the oven, let your meatballs rest for a couple of minutes. Then dish them up with a generous ladle of your favorite marinara sauce. The contrast between the savory, cheesy meatballs and the tangy sauce is nothing short of magic!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Meatballs

Garnishes

For a show-stopping final touch, sprinkle some extra freshly grated parmesan and snipped fresh oregano right over your Garlic Parmesan Meatballs. A swirl of cracked black pepper or a dusting of chopped fresh basil also adds color and pop.

Side Dishes

These meatballs are super versatile! Serve them over al dente spaghetti, nestle them into warm, buttery garlic bread, or simply pair with a crisp salad and roasted veggies for a lighter touch. Creamy polenta is another dreamy companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Try skewering a few Garlic Parmesan Meatballs as an appetizer at your next party, or pile them in a sub roll for a hearty meatball sandwich. For family-style dining, bring the whole baking dish to the table and let everyone help themselves—no one will be able to resist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any remaining Garlic Parmesan Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to four days, making them perfect for lunches or quick weeknight snacking.

Freezing

These meatballs freeze beautifully! Just cool completely, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to three months—just label with the date so you can enjoy whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the meatballs in a covered dish at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a speedy meal, but the oven or a simmer in sauce will keep them juicier.

FAQs

Can I use only beef or only sausage for the meatballs?

Absolutely! While the mix of both gives the best flavor and texture, you can use all beef or all sausage if you prefer. Just note that the fat content may differ, so keep an eye on doneness and juiciness.

Can I make these Garlic Parmesan Meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the Italian breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety, or try using cooked quinoa or rolled oats for a binder. The results will still be tender and tasty.

What type of parmesan should I use?

Freshly grated parmesan yields the best flavor and melt, but pre-grated versions will work in a pinch. If you can, spring for authentic Parmigiano Reggiano for the richest, nutty taste.

Can I pan-fry instead of baking these meatballs?

Definitely! Just heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium and brown the meatballs on all sides, then cover and cook until done. Baking is a bit neater and ensures even cooking, while pan-frying adds a bit of extra crust.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Of course! This Garlic Parmesan Meatballs recipe scales up easily—just use a couple of large pans and rotate them halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Final Thoughts

So, are you ready to dive into your own batch of irresistible Garlic Parmesan Meatballs? Whether you’re sharing with family, feeding a crowd, or treating yourself, this recipe promises golden, garlicky joy in every bite. Give it a try—you’ll want to make them again and again!