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Garlic Butter Meatballs

Quick and comforting garlic butter meatballs that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for weeknight dinners or as an appetizer.
Print it Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatball Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended) Use leaner blends for a drier texture.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Plain or seasoned; panko gives a lighter texture.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano can be used as a sharper substitute.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Or substitute with 1 tsp garlic paste.
  • 1 large egg Binds the meat mixture.
  • to taste salt and pepper To taste.
  • 4 tablespoons butter Divided if preferring to brown in oil and finish with butter.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Gently mix until combined—don’t overwork the meat.
  3. Roll the mixture into roughly 1-inch meatballs.
Cooking
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. When it foams, add the meatballs in a single layer without crowding.
  2. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5–7 minutes total, turning carefully so they retain shape.
  3. Transfer browned meatballs to a baking dish and pour any remaining butter from the skillet over the meatballs.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and juices run clear.
  5. Remove, let rest for 3–5 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve.

Notes

For variations, consider mixing in chopped herbs, using different cheeses, or swapping breadcrumbs. Follow storage guidelines to maximize freshness.