Food & Culinary

How to make delicious meatballs

Paulette Mboga 01st July, 2026 06:31 AM

Homemade meatballs are a tasty and comforting meal that can be served with spaghetti, rice, mashed potatoes or enjoyed on their own.

Making them from scratch is easier than many people think, and the result is juicy, flavourful meatballs that taste much better than store-bought ones.

Here’s a simple recipe you can prepare at home using everyday ingredients.

Ingredients

For the meatballs, you will need:

500g minced beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon mixed herbs
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cooking oil

For the sauce:

2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large tomatoes, blended or finely chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef stock or water
1 teaspoon mixed herbs
Salt and black pepper to taste

Step 1: Prepare the meatball mixture

In a large bowl, combine the minced beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, paprika, mixed herbs, salt and black pepper.

A woman cooking in front of a ring light. PHOTO/Grok — A woman cooking in front of a ring light.

Mix everything well using clean hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Shape the meatballs

Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball.

Place the meatballs on a plate and let them rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while cooking.

Step 3: Brown the meatballs

Heat the cooking oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.

Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning them often until they are nicely browned on all sides.

The meatballs do not need to be fully cooked at this stage because they will finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 4: Make the sauce

In the same pan, heat a little more oil if needed.

Cook the chopped onion until soft, then add the garlic and stir for one minute. Add the tomatoes and tomato paste, then cook for about 8 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Pour in the beef stock or water, add the mixed herbs, and season with salt and black pepper. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Finish cooking

Return the browned meatballs to the pan.

Cover and let them simmer in the sauce for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fully cooked and tender. Stir gently from time to time so the meatballs stay whole.

Serving ideas

Serve the meatballs hot with spaghetti, white rice, ugali, mashed potatoes or fresh bread. You can also sprinkle grated cheese or chopped parsley on top for extra flavour.

Tips for the best meatballs

Use fresh minced beef for the best flavour.
Do not overmix the meat mixture.
Let the meatballs rest before frying.
Brown them first before adding them to the sauce.
Simmer gently to keep the meatballs soft and juicy.

With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can make delicious homemade meatballs that are packed with flavour. They are perfect for a family dinner, meal prep or a special weekend treat and are sure to become a favourite in your kitchen.