Meatballs are more than a comfort classic—they’re the secret star of endless dishes. Tucked into pastas, soups, sliders, or bowls, they bring juicy flavor and satisfying bite every time. Each idea reimagines them with new sauces, spices, and pairings. Simple to make, fun to eat, and always a hit.

Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Chicken Marsala Meatballs in a black dish.
Chicken Marsala Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These Chicken Marsala Meatballs put a fun twist on the classic Italian dish. Tender chicken meatballs are simmered in a savory Marsala wine sauce that feels restaurant-worthy. They’re easy to serve as an appetizer or over pasta for a comforting meal. A simple green salad or crusty bread makes the perfect pairing.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Meatballs

A white bowl filled with glazed meatballs, garnished with chopped parsley, placed on a wooden table with a soft drink can and a glass in the background.
Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Meatballs. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

These Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Meatballs cook low and slow until they’re irresistibly tender. The Dr. Pepper adds sweetness that blends perfectly with tangy barbecue sauce. It’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that basically makes itself. Perfect for parties, game day, or easy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Meatballs

Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs

Golden meatballs with a sprinkle of herbs on a white plate, with marinara sauce.
Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs bring bold heat and juicy flavor in every bite. They’re coated in a spicy homemade firecracker sauce that cooks beautifully in the air fryer. Quick to prepare and fun to serve, they work as both an appetizer and a simple meal over rice or veggies. Expect them to disappear fast!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs

Amazing Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy

A close-up of a plate with egg noodles topped with easy Swedish meatballs and creamy gravy, garnished with herbs. Fresh parsley is visible in the background on a wooden surface.
Amazing Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

These Swedish Meatballs are the ultimate cozy comfort dish. Tender beef-and-pork meatballs are seasoned with warm spices and simmered in a rich, creamy brown gravy. They’re delicious over mashed potatoes, noodles, or even rice. Perfect for nights when you want something comforting without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Amazing Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy

Enchilada Meatballs

Enchilada Meatballs. Photo credit: Litlle House Big Alaska .

Enchilada Meatballs deliver all the bold flavors of enchiladas in bite-sized form. They bake up easily with minimal prep, making them great for busy nights. The sauce stays rich and comforting with just the right amount of spice. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in a bowl.
Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are a lighter take on classic meatballs without sacrificing flavor. They cook quickly in the air fryer, giving them a juicy inside and lightly crisp exterior. They work well with marinara, barbecue sauce, or any dipping sauce you love. Great for meal prep or easy dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Greek Meatballs

Greek Meatballs on a plate with tomatoes.
Greek Meatballs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

These Greek Meatballs add a Mediterranean twist with feta, spinach, herbs, and bright seasonings. They’re tender, flavorful, and pair perfectly with cool, creamy tzatziki. Serve them as an appetizer or in pitas with fresh veggies for a simple meal. A fun upgrade from classic meatballs!
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatballs

Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

A wooden spoon holds a Chicken Parmesan Meatball over a skillet filled with meatballs.
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Chicken Parmesan Meatballs turn a beloved classic into a comforting bite-sized dish. Juicy chicken meatballs are simmered in marinara and finished with a blanket of melted cheese. They’re perfect over pasta, tucked in a sandwich, or served as a hearty appetizer. Easy, familiar, and always satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Whole30 Meatballs and Gravy Over Riced Veggies

Six cooked meatballs topped with chopped green onions are served over a bed of finely diced carrots and rice in a clear glass bowl—one of our favorite easy meals for quick, fun recipes any night.
Whole30 Meatballs and Gravy Over Riced Veggies. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

This Whole30-friendly dish is hearty, comforting, and completely grain-free. Savory meatballs are served with a rich gravy over light, fluffy riced vegetables. It’s filling without feeling heavy, making it great for family dinners. Even those not on Whole30 love this meal.
Get the Recipe: Whole30 Meatballs and Gravy Over Riced Veggies

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs pack big flavor into a fast weeknight recipe. They’re simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce with warm spices and red curry paste. Ready in about 30 minutes, they’re perfect for busy nights. Serve them on their own or with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs

Cheddar stuffed turkey meatballs served with zoodles.
Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs hide a gooey, cheesy center in every bite. The turkey and zucchini keep them moist while Italian seasoning adds familiar comfort. They simmer in marinara for extra flavor and easy serving. Great for dinner, meal prep, or party bites.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A rectangular white plate with rice-filled meatballs in red tomato sauce, garnished with chopped herbs, sits on a white wooden table beside a floral napkin and stacked plates—the perfect choice for easy meals.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs deliver nostalgic comfort with minimal effort. The rice cooks inside the meatballs, giving them their classic “porcupine” look and tender texture. They simmer all day in a savory tomato sauce that’s warm and homey. Ideal for busy days when you want a hearty, hands-off meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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