How Long to Bake Meatballs at 350? Recipe in Oven

How Long to Bake Meatballs at 350? Recipe in Oven

How long does it take co bake meatballs in oven at 350 degrees? Let’s find out the best recipe with the correct cooking times and temperatures!

While there are many methods of cooking meatballs, many people agree that the best way is to bake meatballs in the oven. It is simple and hassle-free. Prepare the meat, slide them into the oven, set your timer, enjoy a glass of wine, no worries, come back when the time is up to well-cooked meatballs with a crispy crust and a juicy and flavorful center. 

You don’t have to hover over the oven, constantly flipping the meatballs. Baking meatballs in the oven gives it more flavor without the additional oil of pan-frying. Baking meatballs in the oven is also a perfect option if you want to cook a large batch.

Learn all you need to know about how to make meatballs.

What is the best temperature to bake meatballs in oven?

Cooking time and temperature for meatballs

The two factors that affect the quality of your meatballs are the duration of cooking and the cooking temperature. Another important factor is the preparation of your meatballs before cooking. Get these right and you are sure of delicious meatballs.

The best temperature to get a perfectly cooked meatball is 350 and 400 Fahrenheit. 

How long to bake meatballs in oven at 350 and 400 degrees?

How long to cook meatballs in oven at 350 degrees

There is no straightforward answer for how long to cook meatballs in the oven. The answer depends on some factors you need to consider. For instance, how many trays filled with meatballs do you have in your oven at once? What is the thickness of your meatballs and how well do you want them cooked? 

If you have meatballs rolled into an inch and half size, you can cook your meatballs at 350 Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes.

You can also cook meatballs at 400 Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes. Of course the higher the temperature, the less time you have to cook. 

Note: Not a huge difference but you should pay attention to time either way. Watch the temperature and time so that you don’t dry the meatballs out when you overcook or poison your food in some cases when you undercook.

How Long to Bake Meatballs at 350? Recipe in Oven

Meatballs in Oven at 350 Degrees

Oven-baked meatballs do not have the additional oil and mess of pan-frying. Follow our recipe for the most tender and tasty meatballs baked in the oven.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Restime Time 3 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds Ground beef
  • 1/2 cup Grated romano/parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup Milk
  • 2 Eggs
  • 3/4 cup Bread crumbs (panko, whole wheat, or Italian)
  • 1/2 tbsp Black pepper
  • 1/2 tbsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Onion powder
  • ½ cup Water

Instructions
 

PROCEDURE

  • Preheat the oven to 350 Fahrenheit.
  • Pour and mix your ingredients in a bowl. 
  • Wash your hands clean and Knead properly until evenly mixed.

The secret: Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes before forming the meatballs especially if you use panko breadcrumbs. During the time, the breadcrumbs absorb the ingredients and hold them onto the meat as they bake.

  • Roll mixture into one and a half inches-sized meatballs. Ensure you maintain the same size for each ball.
  • Place meatballs on a baking sheet. Also, allow some space between each ball to allow for thorough heat circulation and transfer.
  • To ensure that the meatballs don't stick to the baking sheet, line with parchment paper, or spray the baking sheet lightly with a nonstick cooking spray. Clean-up is easier when you do this because the pan will be greasy.
  • Slide your meatballs into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes at 400 Degrees Fahrenheit or 25-30 at 350 Degrees Fahrenheit.
  • To check for doneness, measure the internal temperature of the meatballs which should be between 160 to 165 Fahrenheit.
  • The meatballs should be evenly cooked and nicely brown on the outside.

Notes

NOTE: Meatballs that are pink on the inside are not safe to eat. They show that the meat is not well cooked, and may lead to food poisoning.
Keyword Meatballs in oven at 350 degrees

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Bear in mind that because the meatballs are frozen, the cooking time will be affected.

Frozen meatballs will take 50% more time compared to their thawed and fresh counterpart. 

What is the best internal temperature of meatballs?

Are you using a thermometer to check if your meatballs are well cooked?

The best internal temperature of meatballs should be 160-165 Fahrenheit on an instant-read thermometer. To check, stick a food thermometer in the center of one to check if they are done.

Meatballs that are completely cooked should be brown on the outside, and when you cut them open, they should be brown on the inside as well.

The best vegetables to eat with meatballs

Vegetables

Meatballs and vegetables are a great combination. Here are some of our recommended veggies to eat with meatballs.

Serve your meatballs with:

  • A side of sautéed broccoli;
  • Roasted asparagus;
  • Green beans;
  • Salad;

Don’t take our word for it. Feel free to create magic with your favorite vegetables. 

The best side dishes to eat with meatballs

Meatballs side dishes

A dish of oven-baked meatballs is a versatile protein source. You can enjoy your meatballs with a variety of dishes. No rules. Just as a guide, listed below are some of the best dishes to eat with meatballs:

  • Spaghetti – a family favorite. A classic.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes taste great with creamy meatballs, and meatballs with gravy or mushroom sauce.
  • Rice is a delightful side dish especially for meatballs with a creamy or savory sauce. A match made in secret cookbooks.
  • Red Roasted Potatoes – a perfect for busy weeknights and delicious combination.
  • Egg Noodles – instead of spaghetti, spice the magic with egg noodles. 
  • Meatball sub with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese also makes a great combination! Be sure to use crispy and thick bread that can stand the pressure.
  • Serve meatballs on top of a whole wheat bun. 
  • You can also serve you meatballs with steamed veggies as a side dish.
  • Serve meatballs with baked fries.

Feel free to enjoy your meatballs with a mix of more than one side dish.

Tips and tricks for a better recipe

You can use any ground meat to make meatballs, however, we recommend that you Pick fattier meats like beef, lamb, or pork as they ensure a more tender outcome.

Be sure to space the meatballs on the parchment paper to allow for thorough heat circulation and transfer.

So, do you already know how long does it take to bake meatballs in oven at 350 degrees? Please, feel free to leave your comments below!

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Candy Seideman has been cooking for most of her life. In fact she is referred to as "The Chef" by most of her close family not only because she attended culinary school and was an actual chef, but also because she has a passion for cooking for friends and family.