Craving a mouthwatering twist on classic meatballs that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance? Get ready to meet the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines the irresistible flavors of pizza and meatballs in one epic dish! These Easy Pepperoni Pizza Meatballs are about to become your new obsession – packed with savory ground beef, zesty pepperoni, and a cheesy punch that'll have everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're looking for a show-stopping appetizer or a fun family dinner, this recipe is about to revolutionize your meal game!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup diced pepperoni
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice golden-brown color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Crack the large egg into the mixture and blend it in thoroughly. The egg will help bind the ingredients together, making the meatballs hold their shape.
- Add the diced pepperoni to the mixture. Stir until the pepperoni is evenly incorporated into the meatball mixture. This will add a delicious, savory flavor to each bite.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. You should be able to make approximately 16 meatballs from this mixture.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Ensure they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the meatballs in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. This will be served alongside the meatballs.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve the meatballs with the warmed marinara sauce for dipping or spooning over the top.
- Enjoy your Easy Pepperoni Pizza Meatballs as a delicious appetizer or main dish, perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings!
Tips
- To ensure your Pepperoni Pizza Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, keep these pro tips in mind:• Use fresh, high-quality ground beef with a little fat content (80/20 blend works best) to keep the meatballs juicy and flavorful. • Don't overwork the meat mixture – mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the meatballs tender. • Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – 160°F is the perfect internal temperature for ground beef. • For extra crispy edges, you can broil the meatballs for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking. • Make ahead tip: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. • Serving suggestion: Pair with a side of garlic bread or over a bed of pasta for a complete meal. • Pro hack: If you want an extra cheesy twist, sprinkle some mozzarella on top of the meatballs during the last 2 minutes of baking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 130mg
