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Plate of mini meatballs with dish of tomato sauce.
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5 from 1 vote

Perfect Mini Meatballs

These tiny, tender mini meatballs can transform from party appetizer to soup star to pasta perfection – versatile, and make-ahead-friendly!
Prep Time40 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian, Italian American
Servings: 48 meatballs
Calories: 41kcal
Author: Marie

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef may use ground turkey or chicken instead; see NOTE 1
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic I like the milder taste of granulated here
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs plus more if needed; see NOTE 1
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 475°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. I like to lightly oil the aluminum foil, but this isn't needed for parchment.
  • In a large bowl, combine the beef, eggs, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, cheese, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix gently with your hands until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  • The perfect mixture should have just enough breadcrumbs to hold shape when forming into a ball. Add more if necessary.
  • Using a teaspoon for consistent sizing, form into 1/2-inch meatballs (about the size of a large marble).
  • Alternatively, form the meat mixture into a 1-inch diameter rope on a lightly oiled surface and cut into 1/2-inch pieces, then quickly roll each piece between palms to form mini meatballs. You can use slightly damp hands to prevent sticking or cooking spray on your hands and the roll.
  • Place meatballs on prepared baking sheet, leaving small gaps between each.
  • Bake at 475°F for 8-9 minutes or until lightly browned and cooked.

To Serve

  • Serve with marinara sauce on the side as an appetizer or in soup, stews, or pasta dishes.

Notes

NOTE 1: If you use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef, you may need more breadcrumbs as those meats carry more moisture. The perfect mixture should have just enough breadcrumbs to hold its shape well. 

Nutrition

Calories: 41kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 91mg | Potassium: 38mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 20IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 0.3mg