Easy Basic Meatballs

winkki's Note:

This is originally from the Betty Crocker cookbook. My 3rd and 4th grade daughters are learning to cook and this is simple enough for them, but turns out well enough to serve to guests. (When they use this recipe, they usually sub 1/4-1/2 tsp onion powder for the chopped onion.) It's also a very versatile recipe: sometimes we also add other spices -- oregano, basil, thyme for Italian food or cinnamon and mint for Greek food.) We always oven-bake these, though there are also pan-fry and microwave options in the cookbook that we've not tried. Also good to cook ahead and freeze for later use.

• Total Time: 25 mins
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Yield: 24 meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef (we also use ground turkey)
• ½-2⁄3; cup dry breadcrumbs (can also use seasoned crumbs)
• ¼ cup milk
• ¼-¾ teaspoon salt (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 small onion , chopped (approx 1/4 c)
• 1 egg

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients and shape into 20-24 meatballs (1 to 1-1/2 inches each).
2. To oven bake: Place in ungreased 9x13 pan (you may want to line it with foil for easier clean-up).
3. Bake 20-25 min or until light brown and cooked through; turn meatballs halfway through, if desired, to help maintain a round shape.
4. To pan fry: Cook in skillet on medium heat, turning as needed, until brown (approx 20 min).
5. To microwave: Place in micro-proof 12x7 pan and cover loosely.
6. Micro on high for 3 minutes; rearrange meatballs.
7. Cover again loosely and micro until brown inside, approx 5-7 min more.
8. Let stand covered for 3 minutes.

Reviews

[ohgal]

I followed the recipe as written, and loved how simple it was. They are great for the picky grandkids. They gobbled them up. I made extra to give them to take back home with them. Thanks for posting it.

[Chef #1070939]

So versatile and easy to make and also yummy!!

[Michelly87]

This recipe turned out great. Super easy and delicious. I don't work well with onions, so I replaced the one small onion with a little less than one tablespoon of onion powder. After a few tries, I decided to add my own twist to the recipe. I added 6 tablespoons of grated Parmesan. This adds a nice flavor.

I highly recommend this recipe.