18 Meatballs Recipes That Come Together Fast

Meatballs are more than just a side dish—they’re the base for easy weeknight dinners, cozy comfort food, and even creative casseroles. These recipes span every style from low-carb and keto-friendly to bold international flavors and plant-based options. You’ll find everything from stuffed meatballs to slow cooker favorites, all designed to work with what you have and still deliver great results. Whether you use beef, turkey, chicken, or go meatless, there’s something here for every taste and schedule.

Keto Turkey Meatballs

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These low-carb meatballs use ground turkey, herbs, and almond flour for a lighter option that still holds together well. They bake up juicy and pair nicely with zucchini noodles or a rich tomato sauce. You can make a batch ahead and freeze them too. A good go-to for simple keto dinners.
Get the Recipe: Keto Turkey Meatballs

Carnivore Meatballs

Made without breadcrumbs or vegetables, these meatballs are all about the meat and fat for a protein-heavy bite. Often using a mix of beef and pork, they stay moist and rich. You can pan fry or bake them depending on your preference. Great with eggs or broth for a no-carb meal.
Get the Recipe: Carnivore Meatballs

Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs

These cook low and slow in a creamy, savory sauce that thickens as it simmers. The meatballs stay tender and soak up all the flavor from the gravy. Serve over mashed potatoes, noodles, or cauliflower mash. They reheat well and work for cozy meals.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs

Meatball Pot Pie

Savory meatballs are tucked into a flaky crust with vegetables and a rich gravy. This twist on a classic comfort dish turns meatballs into a full meal. Bake until golden and bubbly. Serve hot with a side salad or steamed veggies.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Pot Pie

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 .

Sweet and tangy, these meatballs cook in a mix of barbecue sauce and Dr. Pepper for a unique glaze. The soda adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor. They’re great for parties, potlucks, or serving over rice. Just dump and cook.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Meatballs

Cajun Meatball Stew

A bowl of rice and meatball stew with vegetables, served with a spoon, placed on a green checkered cloth. — Cajun Meatball Stew. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget .

Spicy meatballs simmer in a flavorful brown gravy with vegetables and plenty of seasoning. This Louisiana-inspired dish is rich, filling, and bold. Serve over rice to soak up the sauce. Great for cooler nights or feeding a group.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Meatball Stew

Meatball Dump and Bake Casserole

Close-up of a spoon lifting baked pasta topped with melted cheese and meatballs. A bed of additional pasta sits in the background, garnished with herbs. — Meatball Dump and Bake Casserole. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget .

No browning or boiling needed—just layer frozen or raw meatballs, sauce, and pasta in a dish and bake. Everything cooks together in one pan. It’s a low-effort dinner with high payoff. Add cheese on top before baking for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Dump and Bake Casserole

Porcupine Meatballs

These classic meatballs mix rice into the meat, which sticks out as they cook for a fun texture. Simmered in tomato sauce, they’re a throwback meal that still hits the spot. Use leftover rice or cook everything together. Serve with green beans or a salad.
Get the Recipe: Porcupine Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Crispy outside and juicy inside, these cook quickly in the air fryer without needing oil. Season with herbs or spices and serve with marinara, over salad, or in wraps. They’re great for prepping ahead or packing in lunches. Simple and lean.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs

Each meatball has a cheesy surprise in the middle that melts as it bakes. The combo of turkey and cheddar keeps them flavorful without being heavy. Serve with a dipping sauce or as part of a sandwich. Kids love these too.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs

Cheese Stuffed Mexican Meatballs

A white platter with cheese stuffed meatballs, limes, radishes and onions. — Cheese Stuffed Mexican Meatballs. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

These meatballs are seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and garlic, then filled with cheese and baked or fried. Serve with salsa, rice, or in tacos. They’re spicy, savory, and great for something different. A fun way to shake up taco night.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Stuffed Mexican Meatballs

Chicken Marsala Meatballs

This take on a classic dish uses ground chicken and a marsala wine mushroom sauce for a rich, elegant dinner. The sauce is slightly sweet and earthy. Serve over pasta or mashed potatoes. Ideal for when you want comfort food with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Chicken Meatballs

Simple and versatile, these meatballs use ground chicken and seasonings that you can adapt to any dish. Bake, air fry, or simmer in sauce. Serve in bowls, wraps, or with veggies. A solid option for meal prep or freezer meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Meatballs

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Ground turkey meets red curry and coconut milk for a creamy, spicy dish with bold flavor. These meatballs simmer in the sauce until tender. Serve with rice or noodles and fresh herbs. A lighter twist on takeout favorites.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Copycat Ikea Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Creamy sauce, tender meatballs, and a hint of allspice make this version true to the store favorite. Serve with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam if you have it. It’s a full meal with nostalgic flavor. Easy to make in batches.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Ikea Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Easy Keto Cast Iron Meatballs

Cooked in a hot skillet, these meatballs get a crusty exterior and juicy inside. They’re grain-free and full of flavor from garlic, onion, and herbs. Serve in sauce or with roasted vegetables. Cast iron adds a little extra texture.
Get the Recipe: Easy Keto Cast Iron Meatballs

Enchilada Meatballs

Cheesy mexican meatballs in a skillet. — Enchilada Meatballs. Photo credit: Litlle House Big Alaska.

These meatballs use taco seasoning and a hint of enchilada sauce for a spicy, saucy twist. Bake and serve with rice, beans, or corn. Add cheese before baking for extra flavor. Great for a low-carb taco night.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Gluten Free Vegan Air Fryer Meatballs with Spaghetti Marinara

Made with chickpeas, rice, or lentils, these meatballs are crisp on the outside and soft inside. The air fryer makes them quick and oil-free. Serve over gluten-free pasta with your favorite sauce. A solid option for meatless nights.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Vegan Air Fryer Meatballs with Spaghetti Marinara