Christmas Meatballs
Delicious and versatile meatballs that bring festive joy to any holiday gathering and are perfect for meal prep or as an easy finger food.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs Italian style for added flavor.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated gives the best flavor.
- ¼ cup chopped parsley Fresh is ideal for brightness.
- 1 large egg Binds the meatballs together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds mild heat.
- 1 cup marinara sauce Store-bought or homemade.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For browning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients. Chop the parsley and mince the garlic ahead of time for quick access.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined but don’t overwork the meat.
Shaping
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter.
Browning
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes.
Baking
- Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over them and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until they are cooked through, with an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).
Serving
- Let the meatballs cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
These meatballs are versatile, suitable for meal prep, freezable, and can be customized with various substitutions for dietary needs.