Description
If you love crispy, golden-brown meatballs, this Parmesan-Crusted Meatballs recipe is about to become your new favorite. These meatballs deliver the perfect balance of crunch and juiciness, thanks to a generous coating of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Whether served as an appetizer, paired with pasta, or stuffed in a sub, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or use turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 cup bread crumbs (Panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying or brushing before baking)
Instructions
Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ½ cup of Parmesan (reserve the rest for coating), bread crumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Shape the Meatballs:
- Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Place them on a parchment-lined tray to prevent sticking.
- Pro Tip: Lightly oil your hands before rolling to prevent sticking and create smooth, evenly shaped meatballs.
Coat with Parmesan for Maximum Crunch:
- Spread the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan onto a plate.
- Roll each meatball in the cheese, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
- This creates a crispy, cheesy outer layer when cooked.
Choose Your Cooking Method:
Baking Method (Healthier Option):
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the meatballs on a greased baking sheet or a wire rack over a tray.
- Lightly brush with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
Pan-Frying Method (Crispiest Option):
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes).
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Air-Fryer Method (Fastest Option):
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the basket.
- Air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with marinara sauce, on top of spaghetti, or in a toasted sub roll with melted mozzarella.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven at 375°F to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing Instructions: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen by adding 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: ~320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 25g