These flavorful, tender baked meatballs combine the richness of ground beef and sausage with Italian-inspired ingredients like Parmesan, pesto, and fresh garlic. Infused with savory garlic and onion, blended until smooth for an extra boost of flavor, these meatballs offer a delightful burst of taste in every bite. Italian breadcrumbs add subtle texture, while egg yolks and a splash of milk ensure the meatballs stay moist and juicy.
A hint of basil pesto adds a fresh, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with the saltiness of the Parmesan cheese, enhancing the flavors while keeping the meatballs light. Baking at high heat gives a golden exterior, while a quick broil at the end adds just the right amount of crispness to the tops. The meatballs reach a perfect internal temperature, staying tender yet fully cooked.
Serve these delicious meatballs over your favorite pasta with a generous ladle of marinara or Alfredo sauce, or enjoy them as a hearty appetizer or sandwich filling. The result is a perfectly balanced, Italian-style meatball that’s ideal for a cozy family meal or a special gathering.
Easy Baked Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 4-5 garlic cloves
- 1/4 onion
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil more if needed for blending
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Extra for topping
- 2-3 tbsp basil pesto
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°.
- In a food processor, combine the garlic, onion, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil if necessary for a smooth consistency.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, ground sausage, Italian breadcrumbs, milk, egg yolks, salt, pepper, Parmesan, and basil pesto. Pour in the garlic-onion mixture from the food processor.
- Using your hands, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Measure out approximately 3 tablespoons of the meat mixture and roll into balls. Place each meatball on a baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°.
- Switch the oven to broil mode and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tops of the meatballs are golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.