Description
These spicy meatballs are packed with bold flavors from garlic, chili powder, and red pepper flakes, baked to perfection for a juicy and tender bite. Perfect for serving over pasta or as a savory appetizer, this recipe delivers a deliciously fiery twist on classic meatballs in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs evenly.
- Mix Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, egg, whole milk, minced garlic, chili powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and uniform.
- Add Beef: Add the ground beef to the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the beef is evenly combined with the seasoning mixture.
- Shape Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch diameter meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Bake Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have developed a nice browned exterior.
- Rest: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving. Enjoy them hot, ideally over your favorite tomato sauce.
Notes
- For extra moisture, you can substitute whole milk with buttermilk or cream.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- These meatballs freeze well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.
- Serve with spaghetti, dipping sauces, or on a sub sandwich for a versatile meal.