Are you tired of the same old leftovers every night? Look no further! Meatballs are a staple in many households, and when cooked to perfection, they can be used in a multitude of dishes beyond just pasta sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a creative way to use up last night’s meal, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering leftover meatball recipes that will become your new go-to’s.
From comforting subs and casseroles to international-inspired stir-fries and tacos, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and delicious on the table in no time. And the best part? You can customize them to suit your tastes and dietary needs. So, get ready to elevate your leftover game with these 18 delectable meatball creations!
Meatball Sub Sandwich with Melted Cheese
A classic Italian-inspired sandwich that combines juicy meatballs with melted cheese and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 sub rolls
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 slices mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the meatballs according to package instructions or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the sub rolls by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
4. Assemble the subs by spreading marinara sauce on each roll, followed by 3-4 meatballs.
5. Place 2 slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the meatballs.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole
A comforting twist on the Italian favorite, this casserole combines tender meatballs with al dente spaghetti, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and cooked spaghetti; simmer over medium heat.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of meatballs followed by a layer of spaghetti mixture. Repeat this process one more time, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Meatball Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines juicy meatballs with tender bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with about 1/4 cup of meatball mixture, leaving some space at the top.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Meatball Pizza with Fresh Basil
Elevate your pizza game with this mouthwatering combination of juicy meatballs, savory tomato sauce, and fragrant fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lb pizza dough
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and basil in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and bake on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Top with tomato sauce, meatballs, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Meatball and Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these savory meatball and cheese quesadillas, perfect for satisfying cravings or fueling a party. This recipe combines the comfort of homemade meatballs with the convenience of a quesadilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, place a tortilla in a large skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on half of the tortilla.
6. Add 2-3 meatballs on top of the cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Meatball Sliders with Garlic Aioli
Meatball Sliders with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Get ready to elevate your slider game with these mouthwatering meatballs, nestled between soft buns and topped with a tangy garlic aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Garlic Aioli (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the oven rack.
5. Assemble sliders by placing 2-3 meatballs per bun and topping with Garlic Aioli (recipe below).
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Meatball Fried Rice with Vegetables
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe adds savory meatballs and a medley of colorful vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 4-6 meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice for about 2-3 minutes, combining it with the vegetables and onion.
6. Add the meatballs and stir-fry until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dish.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Meatball and Potato Hash
A classic comfort food dish that combines the rich flavors of meatballs with the comforting warmth of a potato hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
7. Add diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
8. Serve hot with baked meatballs on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Meatball Tortilla Soup
Looking for a hearty and flavorful soup to warm up on a chilly day? This Meatball Tortilla Soup recipe is the perfect solution, combining tender meatballs with crunchy tortillas and rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and sour cream for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and olive oil in a bowl. Form into meatballs and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and baked meatballs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Cut tortillas into strips and add to the soup. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tortillas are tender.
5. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Meatball Breakfast Scramble with Eggs
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast scramble featuring savory meatballs and fluffy eggs. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Set aside.
2. Heat the butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the whisked eggs and scramble until almost set, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the cooked meatballs to the eggs and stir until well combined.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the eggs are fully set.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Meatball and Pasta Salad
This hearty pasta salad combines juicy meatballs with a medley of colorful vegetables, tangy dressing, and al dente pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons Italian dressing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Roll into meatballs (about 20). Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper strips.
7. Add marinara sauce and Italian dressing. Toss to combine.
8. Slice cooked meatballs into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Meatball Stuffed Garlic Bread
Elevate your snack game with this savory twist on classic garlic bread. Meatballs add a hearty, meaty flavor to the buttery, cheesy goodness of garlic bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Italian-style bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 8-10 homemade or store-bought meatballs
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. Spread a layer of butter on each half, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the buttered bread.
5. Arrange meatballs on one half of the bread, leaving a small gap between each ball.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Place the stuffed bread in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Meatball and Veggie Stir-Fry
Looking for a flavorful and healthy meal that’s ready in no time? Look no further! This meatball and veggie stir-fry is a perfect combination of protein, fiber, and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, and garlic in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add mixed veggies and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
6. Add soy sauce and stir-fry everything together.
7. Serve meatballs with veggie stir-fry and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball Panini with Pesto
Elevate your lunch game with this mouthwatering combination of savory meatballs, creamy pesto, and crispy bread. This satisfying panini is perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 4 slices of Italian-style bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by placing 3-4 meatballs on each slice of bread, followed by a dollop of pesto and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and place the sandwiches in the press or grill.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Meatball and Cheese Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Transform a classic baked potato into a hearty and satisfying meal with this recipe. By adding juicy meatballs and melted cheese, you’ll create a comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While potatoes are baking, prepare meatballs by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Form into small balls and bake on a separate baking sheet for 12-15 minutes.
4. Stuff each baked potato with 2-3 meatballs, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Return potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Meatball Shakshuka with Crusty Bread
Experience the perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors and Italian comfort food with this hearty Meatball Shakshuka recipe, served with crusty bread for dipping. This satisfying dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 eggs
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the diced tomatoes over medium-high heat. Add smoked paprika and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Create four wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
7. Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
8. Serve meatballs on top of the Shakshuka, with crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Meatball and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
Elevate your lasagna game with these flavorful rolls, packed with meatballs, spinach, and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Add garlic, egg, and breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. Mix well.
5. Roll out cooked lasagna noodles into thin sheets. Place 1-2 tablespoons of meatball mixture onto each noodle, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with spinach and mozzarella cheese.
6. Roll up noodles tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Pour marinara sauce over the rolls and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Meatball Tacos with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the classic flavors of tacos with the hearty goodness of meatballs, all wrapped up in a creamy avocado crema. Perfect for a unique twist on taco Tuesday or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Meatball Tacos:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, and taco seasoning. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Mash avocado in a bowl and mix with lime juice, salt, and sour cream. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assembly:
1. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
2. Assemble tacos by placing 2-3 meatballs on each tortilla, followed by a spoonful of Avocado Crema. Add desired toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Get creative with leftover meatballs and transform them into delicious meals for busy weeknights. From classic combinations to innovative twists, this article features 18 mouth-watering recipes that will revamp your meal routine. Discover how to turn meatballs into satisfying subs, casseroles, pizzas, quesadillas, sliders, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or a little adventurous, these recipes showcase the versatility of leftover meatballs and offer endless possibilities for a quick and tasty dinner.
