Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 2 lbs ground beef (we recommend 80/20)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (add 1 cup breadcrumbs for a more dense meatball)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp Kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For Serving (Optional)
- Thinly sliced fresh basil
Instructions
- Make the meatball mixture: Preheat your oven to 375°F if baking. In a mixing bowl, whisk the 2 large eggs until combined. Add the ground beef on top, followed by the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Kosher salt, and black pepper. Use your hands, preferably with disposable gloves, to gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Portion the meatballs: Use a standard 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion equal amounts of the meatball mixture onto a rimmed baking sheet. Once scooped, gently roll each portion with your hands to form uniform, round meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs: For baking, place the baking sheet in the center or the top third of the preheated oven and cook for 12-14 minutes. Alternatively, to broil, place the meatballs on the highest oven rack and broil on high for about 10 minutes. The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature between 155°F and 160°F. Serve immediately with your favorite sides such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta, and garnish with thinly sliced fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For firmer meatballs, increase breadcrumbs to 1 cup.
- Be gentle when mixing to avoid tough meatballs.
- Use disposable gloves to mix the meat for easier cleanup.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
- Thinly sliced fresh basil adds a fresh herbal note as a garnish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
