Parmesan Meat Balls

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Italian

Juicy and flavorful Parmesan meatballs with a tender interior and crispy exterior. These bite-sized delights feature a savory blend of ground beef, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, making them perfect as an appetizer or main course for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and sure to impress.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground round
  • 2 Tbsp. parsley flakes
  • 1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 Tbsp. chopped onion
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tsp. Accent

Instructions

  1. Mix together ground round, parsley flakes, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, beaten egg, milk, and Accent until well combined.
  2. Handle the mixture gently and form into small balls.
  3. Brown the meatballs in hot oil until cooked through and browned on all sides; remove and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a moist texture, use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dried. If you're out of Accent, feel free to substitute with a dash of garlic powder or onion powder to enhance the flavor. Fresh parsley can also replace dried parsley for a brighter taste. For a fun twist, try adding Italian herbs or spices that complement the meatballs, similar to what you might find in Italian recipes.

Serving Suggestions

These Parmesan meatballs are perfect served with spaghetti and marinara sauce or as an appetizer with toothpicks. Pair them with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a creative twist, serve them in a sub roll topped with melted cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich. They also pair beautifully with Baked Italian Macaroni Casserole.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out, covering with a lid until warmed through. They can also be reheated in the microwave for a quick meal.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Parmesan Meat Balls contains roughly 466 calories, with 41g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (82% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.

466 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 41.1g 82% DV
Total Fat 16.5g 21% DV
Carbs 36g 13% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 14.3g 29% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 354.3mg 15% DV
Potassium 471.2mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 121.7mg 41% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 67.1mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 4.7mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 270.4mg 21% DV
Iron 5.4mg 30% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw, shape them and place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked meatballs, let them cool completely before sealing in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs are versatile and can be served over spaghetti with marinara sauce, or as an appetizer with dipping sauces. For a lighter option, serve them with a side salad or roasted vegetables. They also work well in meatball subs topped with cheese, making them a great addition to any Italian-themed meal.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork in place of ground round for a lighter option. Each type of meat will impart a different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment. Adjust the seasoning as needed, especially with leaner meats, to ensure the meatballs remain flavorful and juicy.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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