Easiest Ever 4c Bread Crumbs Meatball Recipe
This 4c bread crumbs meatball recipe is your answer to a delicious, satisfying dinner that’s incredibly easy to make. Forget complicated steps and endless ingredients – we're all about keeping things simple and joyful in the kitchen. These meatballs are tender, flavorful, and come together in a snap, making them perfect for a cozy family meal or a quick weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl For mixing ingredients
- 1 Baking Sheet For baking meatballs (optional)
- 1 Large Skillet For pan-frying meatballs (optional)
- 1 Saucepan For simmering meatballs in sauce (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground meat beef, pork, or blend
- 1 cup 4C seasoned bread crumbs
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- ¼ cup Milk
- 1 large Egg lightly beaten
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil for cooking, optional
- Marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground meat, 4C seasoned bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until just combined. Tip: Don't overmix! Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. We want them tender and juicy!
- Pour in the milk and lightly beaten egg. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Again, avoid overmixing for the best texture.
- Now it's time to shape our meatballs! Take about a tablespoon of the meat mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a clean plate or baking sheet. Tip: For uniform meatballs, use a cookie scoop! This helps ensure they cook evenly.
- You have a couple of delicious options here!
- Oven Baking (Healthier): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
- Pan Frying (Extra Flavor): Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if needed). Cook, turning occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, or until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- For extra flavor and moistness, gently place the cooked meatballs into your favorite marinara sauce. Simmer in the sauce for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb all that wonderful sauce flavor. Variation: For a richer sauce, add a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat!
- Serve your delicious 4c bread crumbs meatballs hot, spooned over pasta, polenta, or nestled in a crusty bread roll for a fantastic meatball sub! Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meatball option. For a richer flavor, try a blend of beef and pork. If you don't have 4C breadcrumbs, use any seasoned breadcrumbs and adjust seasonings to taste.