Crazy Beef Meatballs Recipe
Category: Beef Recipes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Serving Size: 4
Introduction
Crazy Beef Meatballs are the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors, making them a great addition to any meal. Packed with ground beef, mozzarella, and Parmesan, these meatballs offer a tender, juicy texture while delivering an explosion of flavors. Whether served as an appetizer, tossed with your favorite pasta, or paired with a delicious marinara sauce, this easy recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for something comforting and hearty.
These meatballs are straightforward to make, with minimal ingredients and a quick cooking process. They are ideal for busy weeknights or even a casual gathering with friends and family. The combination of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan gives these meatballs a cheesy richness that’s hard to resist, while the fresh garlic and cracked pepper add just the right amount of seasoning to elevate the dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450g) |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Minced garlic (or paste) | 1 tbsp |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Freshly ground pepper | 1 tsp |
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan and mozzarella cheese), so it is not suitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. There are no nuts, eggs, or gluten ingredients in the recipe, but it’s important to note that cross-contamination may occur if prepared in a kitchen that handles these allergens.
Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free: This recipe does not contain any gluten-based ingredients, making it a good choice for those following a gluten-free diet. Be sure to check your cheese packaging to ensure it’s gluten-free if required.
- Low-Carb: With just 1g of carbohydrates per serving, these meatballs are a good option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
- High-Protein: The ground beef provides a solid protein base, with each serving offering 18g of protein.
Cooking Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the desired temperature for baking. -
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, mozzarella cheese, and freshly ground pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until well-combined. -
Form the Meatballs
Take the meat mixture and shape it into 6 generous meatballs. If you prefer smaller or larger meatballs, adjust the size accordingly, but keep in mind that baking time may vary slightly depending on the size. -
Bake the Meatballs
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 18 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. -
Serve
Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and serve them with your favorite sauce or enjoy them as is. A classic marinara sauce or a spicy arrabbiata would pair wonderfully, but feel free to get creative with your dipping options!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Protein | 18g |
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Variations: You can experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or even a blend for added flavor. Just ensure that the cheese is shredded or grated finely to mix well into the meatball mixture.
- Seasoning: If you enjoy a more robust flavor, feel free to add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, or even some fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the meatball mixture.
- Make-Ahead: These meatballs are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Alternatively, freeze them in a single layer before baking, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Sauce Pairings: For an extra indulgent meal, try serving these meatballs with a homemade marinara sauce or creamy Alfredo sauce. They are also great with a simple dipping sauce of ketchup and mustard for a more casual meal.
Conclusion
Crazy Beef Meatballs are a versatile and easy-to-make dish that will surely become a family favorite. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that fits a variety of dietary preferences. Whether you serve them on their own or pair them with a pasta dish, these meatballs are sure to delight. Enjoy the cheesy goodness and rich flavors of this quick and satisfying recipe!
