Alright, mama, if you’re on the hunt for cheap dinners for a family that don’t skimp on flavor, then you’re in the right place. These meatball dinner recipes are the answer to your busy weeknights and long Sundays when you need a quick and easy dinner recipe that everyone will actually eat! Whether you’re looking for classic meatball recipes or some easy homemade meatballs that can be whipped up in a flash, I’ve got you covered.
From pasta recipes to old-fashioned meatballs to meatball meal ideas for every craving, these dinner ideas with meatballs are perfect for easy weeknight dinners or when you’re just out of dinner ideas easy. If you’re wondering what to eat with meatballs or what to make with meatballs, this list has you covered with meatball meal ideas that are satisfying, simple, and super flavorful. I’m talking about quick meatballs, meatball dinner ideas, and simple meatball recipes that will have you covered from weeknight dinners to Sunday dinner ideas.
So grab your apron, ‘cause the best meatball recipe is just a few steps away!
1. Classic Italian Beef Meatballs with Marinara
Servings: 4-6 | Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 30 min
This one is a whole comfort meal kinda vibe. Juicy, tender beef meatballs swimming in a rich, garlicky marinara sauce—so good with spaghetti or just dunking bread in it. My kids love it, and let’s be real, I kinda do too. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can make extra and save future-you some stress.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Roll into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides (about 5 min).
- Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Serve over spaghetti, with garlic bread, or straight-up from the pan (no judgment).
2. Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Servings: 4-6 | Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 30 min
You know those IKEA meatballs? Yeah, these are like that, but better ’cause they’re homemade. They’ve got that rich, creamy gravy that you just wanna pour over everything. My son calls these “fancy meatballs” but honestly, they’re so easy to make. Serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles for the ultimate cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ small onion, grated
- ¼ tsp allspice
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, allspice, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs.
- Heat butter in a pan, brown meatballs, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add flour and whisk for a minute. Slowly add beef broth, then cream, stirring constantly.
- Put meatballs back in, simmer for 10 minutes, then serve over mashed potatoes or noodles.
3. BBQ Beef Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes
Servings: 4-6 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min
This is my lazy-night, everyone’s-happy meal. The meatballs are saucy, sweet, and just a little smoky, and they go perfect with creamy mashed potatoes. Plus, everything cooks in one pan, so yay for fewer dishes!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and onion powder. Shape into meatballs.
- Brown them in a skillet with olive oil, then pour BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce over the top.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve over mashed potatoes and let the family fight over the last meatball.
4. Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) with Tzatziki
Servings: 4-6 | Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 25 min
These Greek meatballs are full of fresh flavors—think garlic, lemon, and a little oregano magic. Plus, when you dunk them in creamy tzatziki? Chef’s kiss. 👌 I serve them with pita and a little salad, and it’s chef-mom-approved.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ small onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Mix beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, brown meatballs on all sides, then cover and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Serve with warm pita, tzatziki, and maybe some cucumber slices for crunch.
5. Teriyaki Meatballs with Steamed Rice
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min
Sweet, sticky, and a little savory—these teriyaki meatballs are a total win for dinner. My kids love anything with rice, so this one’s a go-to when I need a meal that just works. Bonus? It all comes together super fast.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and garlic powder. Roll into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in a pan, then pour in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and honey.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, letting that sauce get all thick and caramelized.
- Serve over rice, sprinkle sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy.
6. Spaghetti and Meatballs
Servings: 4-6 | Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 30 min
A classic. Can’t go wrong. Spaghetti + meatballs = best comfort food ever. My kids love twirling the pasta, and I love that this meal basically guarantees happy plates.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 lb spaghetti
Instructions:
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Roll into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in a pan, then pour in marinara sauce and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti.
- Toss it all together and serve with Parmesan (or extra sauce if you’re a sauce person).
7. Moroccan Meatballs in Spiced Tomato Sauce
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min
These are like little bites of flavor-packed goodness. Warm spices, a rich tomato sauce, and just a touch of heat. Serve ‘em with rice, couscous, or even some crusty bread to scoop up all that saucy goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ small onion, grated
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
- Mix beef, onion, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and salt. Roll into meatballs.
- Heat oil in a pan, brown meatballs, then pour in diced tomatoes and honey.
- Simmer for 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve with rice or couscous, and enjoy the deliciousness.
8. Mediterranean Meatballs with Hummus and Pita
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 20 min
These meatballs are basically vacation-in-a-bite kinda food. They’re packed with garlic, herbs, and a little lemon zing, and when you dunk them in hummus? Ohhh yeah. My kids just call these “the pita meatballs,” and honestly, they disappear fast.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ small onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup hummus
- 4 pita breads
Instructions:
- Mix beef, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, and salt. Shape into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and brown meatballs on all sides. Cover and let cook for 10 more minutes.
- Serve with warm pita, a big ol’ scoop of hummus, and maybe some sliced cucumbers on the side.
9. Korean Gochujang Meatballs with Rice
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min
These meatballs got that perfect sweet-spicy balance, thanks to gochujang (aka Korean chili paste). They’re packed with flavor and super satisfying over rice. I make a mild version for my youngest, and my husband and I go full spice mode. 🌶
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and sesame oil. Shape into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in a pan, then pour in gochujang, soy sauce, and honey.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, letting everything get nice and sticky.
- Serve over rice, and if you’re feelin’ fancy, top with sesame seeds or green onions.
10. Baked Parmesan Meatballs with Garlic Bread
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min
Cheesy, crispy, and baked instead of fried? YUP. These meatballs are super low effort but taste like you really tried. Serve ‘em with garlic bread and marinara for dipping, and boom—instant fam favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- Garlic bread, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt. Shape into meatballs.
- Place on baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes.
- Heat marinara sauce and serve meatballs with garlic bread for dunking.
11. Honey Garlic Meatballs with Stir-Fried Veggies
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min
Sweet, garlicky, and sooo good over rice—these meatballs are a little sticky, a little savory, and basically an automatic win. Plus, you sneak in some veggies, so it’s a balanced meal (ish).
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup stir-fried veggies (like bell peppers and carrots)
Instructions:
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and garlic. Shape into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in a pan with olive oil.
- Add honey, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water. Stir until thick.
- Toss with stir-fried veggies and serve over rice.
12. Middle Eastern Kofta Meatballs with Rice and Yogurt Sauce
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 25 min
These kofta meatballs are packed with warm spices and grilled (or pan-seared) for that perfect smoky char. I love serving them with rice and a cool yogurt sauce—so refreshing and delish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ small onion, grated
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp coriander
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp lemon juice
Instructions:
- Mix beef, onion, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt. Shape into oval-shaped meatballs.
- Cook in a pan with olive oil or grill for extra flavor.
- Mix yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice for the sauce.
- Serve meatballs with rice and drizzle yogurt sauce on top.
13. Buffalo Meatballs with Ranch Dressing
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min
Buffalo sauce lovers, this one’s for you! These meatballs are spicy, saucy, and totally addicting. I usually serve them with a little ranch (for balance, obvi) and some celery sticks if I’m feeling healthy-ish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
Instructions:
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and garlic powder. Shape into meatballs.
- Brown in a pan, then toss in melted butter and buffalo sauce.
- Serve with ranch dressing and watch ‘em disappear.
14. Lemon Herb Meatballs with Roasted Potatoes
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 30 min
Light, herby, and just the right amount of zesty, these meatballs are a fresh twist on dinner. Pair ‘em with roasted potatoes, and you’ve got a wholesome, cozy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix beef, garlic, oregano, salt, and lemon juice. Shape into meatballs.
- Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 25 min.
- Cook meatballs in a pan until browned, then serve with potatoes.
15. Cajun Meatballs with Rice and Beans
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min
Okay, if you love bold, smoky flavors with a little bit of kick, these Cajun meatballs are IT. They’ve got that classic Southern spice and pair perfectly with rice and beans. My kids think anything with rice is automatically a good dinner, so this one’s a hit every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- ½ cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, but highly recommended)
Instructions:
- Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Shape into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Cover and cook for another 10 minutes.
- In a separate pan, sauté bell peppers for 3-4 minutes, then add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and hot sauce (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve meatballs over warm rice, with the bean mixture spooned on top. Enjoy that smoky, spicy, Southern-inspired goodness!
And there you have it—meatball dinner recipes that are perfect for those busy weeknights when you need cheap dinners for a family that still taste amazing. Whether you’re looking for classic meatball recipes, easy homemade meatballs, or even old fashioned meatballs, you’ll find tons of dinner ideas with meatballs here that are totally family-friendly.
These quick and easy dinner recipes are super versatile, so you can make meals with meatballs any night of the week without stressing. Whether you need easy weeknight dinners or Sunday dinner ideas, these meatball dinner ideas will become your go-to! So, next time you’re wondering what to make with meatballs or need a meatball easy recipe to feed the whole fam, you’ll know exactly where to turn.
Because let’s face it, when it comes to meatballs meal ideas, quick meatballs, and supper ideas that everyone loves, these are definitely the best meatball recipes to keep in your back pocket!
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