Go Back

Homemade Meatball Appetizers

These hand-rolled meatball appetizers are crafted with a simple mixture of ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs, then baked until golden and crispy. The process emphasizes shaping each tiny morsel with care, resulting in tender, flavorful bites with a satisfying exterior. Perfect for casual gatherings, they offer a nostalgic, comforting experience in every bite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 20
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef coarsely ground for juiciness
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs use day-old bread pulsed in food processor
  • 1 egg beaten to help bind the mixture
  • 2 cloves garlic minced fresh garlic for aroma and flavor
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley adds brightness and freshness
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika for depth of flavor
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for baking and frying
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Skillet
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Damp your hands slightly with water to prevent sticking, then scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a small, uniform ball—about 1 inch in diameter. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart evenly.
  4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until they are golden brown and firm around the edges. Turn them halfway through baking for even coloring.
  5. While baking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the baked meatballs and fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop a crispy exterior and smell fragrant.
  6. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or toothpicks for easy snacking.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving or serve alongside a marinara dipping sauce.