Drop Meatballs: Easy, Flavorful, and Perfectly Portable Comfort Food

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Drop Meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare and cook, saving you time in the kitchen while still delivering that classic savory taste. The no-roll method means you can whip up a large batch of these meatballs without the hassle of shaping each one individually. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to serve them with your favorite sauce or on their own for a quick and satisfying bite. This makes them a great choice for family dinners, meal prep, or even as a fun dish for kids to help with.

ingredients

1 pound ground beef 
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying or baking

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

1. Mix Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to maintain tender meatballs.

2. Drop the Meatballs:
   Using two spoons or a cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of the meat mixture onto a baking sheet or directly into a skillet. The meatballs don’t need to be perfectly round—this rustic shape adds to their charm.

3. Cooking Options:

   • Pan-fry: Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 12–15 minutes.

   • Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the meatballs on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.

4. Serve:
   Serve drop meatballs with your favorite sauce—marinara, BBQ, or Swedish-style gravy—or enjoy them on their own as appetizers.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 24 meatballs
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Drop Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne pepper to the mix for an extra kick.

• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils for a meatless version of these tasty meatballs.

• Cheese-stuffed Meatballs: For an extra indulgence, add small cubes of mozzarella or cheddar to the center of each meatball.

• Herb Boost: Swap fresh parsley with basil, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat meatballs in the microwave, or warm them in a skillet with a bit of sauce for added moisture. They can also be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

• Freezing: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, bake or fry for 15–20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make drop meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that works well in this recipe.

How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make them suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a healthier option and just as easy! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes until fully cooked.

Can I add vegetables to the meatballs?

Yes! You can add grated zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make these meatballs in advance and freeze them?

Yes! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs, and they’ll be ready to cook whenever you need them.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The meatballs should be browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 160°F (71°C).

What is the best sauce to serve with drop meatballs?

Classic marinara, Swedish gravy, or even BBQ sauce are great options. Choose a sauce that complements your preferred flavor profile.

Can I cook these meatballs in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can simmer them in your favorite sauce on low heat for 2–3 hours in a slow cooker.

What can I serve with drop meatballs?

These meatballs are great served over pasta, in sandwiches, or as appetizers. Pair them with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.

Conclusion

Drop Meatballs are a simple yet delicious comfort food that anyone can make, even on the busiest of days. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these savory bites are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual get-togethers. The beauty of drop meatballs is their versatility, allowing you to customize the flavor to your taste. Whether you bake or fry them, the result is always a tender, juicy meatball that’s bursting with flavor.