Experience the pinnacle of comfort food with our incredible Meatball Pizza! This irresistible dish features succulent homemade meatballs, thinly sliced red onions, and an abundance of gooey, melted cheese, all baked to perfection on a crispy crust. Elevate your next pizza night with this mouthwatering recipe that promises to have everyone reaching for another slice.
Craving more delicious meatball creations? Be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes: Dive into a hearty Meatball Sub, savor the sweet and savory notes of these Slow Cooker Asian Meatballs, or indulge in the rich flavor of Teriyaki Meatballs. For a lighter, yet equally satisfying option, our family-favorite Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Lemon Orzo are a must-try. Each recipe offers a unique twist on this versatile ingredient!
What’s your ultimate fallback meal when dinner plans go awry, or when you simply don’t have the energy to tackle an elaborate recipe? For many, the answer is a resounding “pizza!” And lately, it seems like pizza has become a frequent star on our dinner table, and for good reason.
Perhaps it’s the chaotic schedules, or maybe it’s just my enduring love for a perfectly baked pie. Whatever the reason, I’m certainly not complaining. Crafting a homemade pizza from scratch is a culinary joy, and this Meatball Pizza recipe is truly something special. It’s an elevated take on a classic, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that satisfies every time.
This pizza epitomizes pure comfort. Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice piled high with large, succulent homemade meatballs, nestled amongst a blanket of rich tomato sauce and a generous layer of bubbling, melted cheese. Baked until golden and irresistibly gooey, it’s a dish that brings smiles and demands second helpings. The combination of savory meat, tangy sauce, and creamy cheese is simply divine.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Meatball Pizza
There are countless reasons why this homemade Meatball Pizza will become a cherished part of your recipe repertoire. Firstly, it offers the unparalleled satisfaction of creating a beloved dish from scratch. From mixing the meatball ingredients to stretching the dough, every step is a rewarding culinary experience.
Secondly, this pizza brings together two universally adored comfort foods: juicy, seasoned meatballs and a classic cheesy pizza. The synergy of these components creates a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. It’s hearty, fulfilling, and perfect for those evenings when you need something truly satisfying.
Finally, it’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for a casual gathering, Meatball Pizza is always a hit. It’s customizable, fun to assemble, and guarantees a delicious outcome that will impress without being overly complicated. Get ready for rave reviews and empty plates!
The Heart of the Pizza: Perfect Homemade Meatballs
While convenience might tempt you to use store-bought meatballs, the true magic of this pizza lies in its homemade meatballs. Crafting them from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients, adjust seasonings to your preference, and achieve a texture that is simply superior. Our recipe guides you through creating tender, flavorful meatballs that perfectly complement the pizza, adding an unparalleled depth of taste and succulence to every bite.
Key Ingredients for Your Meatball Pizza
Crafting the perfect Meatball Pizza starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is essential for maximum flavor and texture:
- Ground Beef: For the meatballs, I recommend using ground beef with a moderate fat content, such as 80/20. Too lean, and your meatballs might be dry and less flavorful. The fat renders during cooking, keeping the meatballs moist and tender, and contributing to a richer taste.
- Breadcrumbs: These are crucial for binding the meatball mixture and adding moisture. While store-bought fine breadcrumbs work wonderfully for convenience, feel free to use homemade breadcrumbs if you prefer – they yield excellent results too.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a game-changer here. Its nutty, salty notes infuse the meatballs with a deeper, more authentic Italian flavor. Pre-grated varieties often lack the same intensity and can be drier.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon for adding a complex umami depth to the meatballs. Just a couple of teaspoons enhance the savory profile, making the meatballs incredibly rich and flavorful.
- Egg Yolk: The egg yolk acts as a binder, ensuring that your meatballs hold their shape beautifully during baking. It also contributes to a slightly richer texture.
- Seasonings: Forget packaged spice mixes! Our recipe uses a blend of common pantry spices – paprika, ground mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, dried basil, salt, and a pinch of thyme. This homemade blend allows for precise flavor control, creating meatballs that are perfectly seasoned and aromatic.
- Pizza Dough: The foundation of any great pizza! While my homemade pizza dough recipe offers the best texture and flavor, a good quality store-bought dough is a convenient alternative that still delivers a delicious crust.
- Pizza Sauce: A vibrant, flavorful pizza sauce is essential. I often opt for my homemade pizza sauce for its fresh taste, but feel free to use your favorite store-bought brand. Choose one with a robust tomato flavor.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a welcome hint of sweetness and a slight pungent bite, which beautifully contrasts with the rich meatballs and cheese. It also provides a pleasant textural element.
- Cheese: For the ultimate gooey topping, a combination of shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan is ideal. Mozzarella offers that classic stretchy, melt-in-your-mouth quality, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty finish. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and tastes superior.
- Fresh Basil: This is an optional but highly recommended garnish. Sprinkling fresh basil over the hot pizza after baking adds a burst of vibrant color and a fresh, aromatic finish that brightens the entire dish.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Meatball Pizza
Making this Meatball Pizza is a straightforward process, broken down into a few simple steps. Follow these instructions to create a truly unforgettable meal:
Part 1: Preparing the Flavorful Meatballs
The journey to a perfect Meatball Pizza begins with perfectly cooked meatballs. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now so it preheats along with the oven. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine all the meatball ingredients: ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, egg yolk, paprika, ground mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, dried basil, salt, and thyme. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until everything is combined.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth, compact ball and arrange them on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the meatballs from the oven and set them aside to cool slightly. Once cooled enough to handle, carefully slice each meatball in half. This ensures they lie flat on the pizza and distribute their delicious flavor evenly.
Part 2: Assembling Your Masterpiece
While the meatballs are cooling, increase your oven temperature to 450°F (230°C). Now it’s time to assemble your pizza! On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll your pizza dough into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle. For the best results and handling tips, refer to my detailed pizza dough post.
Transfer your pizza dough to a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal or a baking sheet. Evenly spread your chosen pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Next, scatter the thinly sliced red onions across the sauce, followed by the halved meatballs. Finally, generously sprinkle both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top, ensuring full coverage for that irresistible melt.
Part 3: Baking to Golden Perfection
Carefully slide your assembled pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or into the oven on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pizza crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and beautifully melted with slight browning in spots. Keep a close eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven. For an added touch of freshness and flavor, sprinkle freshly shredded basil over the hot pizza before slicing and serving. The warmth of the pizza will slightly wilt the basil, releasing its fragrant oils. Serve immediately and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Expert Tips for the Best Meatball Pizza
Achieving pizza perfection is all about the details. Here are some extra tips and tricks to ensure your Meatball Pizza is nothing short of spectacular:
- Don’t Overbake the Meatballs: Remember that your meatballs will continue to cook slightly when they are on the pizza in the oven. Bake them until just cooked through initially, about 15 minutes, to prevent them from becoming dry later on.
- Homemade vs. Store-Bought Meatballs: While store-bought meatballs are an option for convenience, the difference in flavor and texture when you make them from scratch is truly remarkable. A little extra effort yields significant rewards in taste!
- Mastering Your Pizza Dough: If you’re using homemade pizza dough, ensure it’s at room temperature before rolling it out; this makes it much easier to work with. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of flour for varying crust textures.
- Preheat Your Pizza Stone (or Pan) Properly: A thoroughly preheated pizza stone or heavy baking sheet is essential for a crispy crust. It provides an initial burst of heat that crisps the bottom of the dough quickly.
- Cheese Matters: Always opt for block mozzarella that you shred yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting as smoothly and lusciously.
- Storing Leftovers: Any leftover Meatball Pizza should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating Leftovers: My absolute favorite way to reheat pizza for a crispy crust is in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. You can also use a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or even a skillet on the stove top over medium heat for 3-5 minutes with a lid to trap steam and melt the cheese. The microwave works in a pinch, but won’t yield a crispy crust.
- Don’t Overload: While it’s tempting to pile on toppings, an overloaded pizza can result in a soggy crust. Distribute your meatballs and cheese evenly but don’t go overboard.
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
This Meatball Pizza recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for creative twists to suit your palate. Here are some ideas to inspire your next pizza masterpiece:
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations. Provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkle of ricotta cheese can add unique flavors and textures. A touch of smoked mozzarella could also be intriguing.
- Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your pizza sauce or sprinkle them over the finished pizza. You could also incorporate a finely diced jalapeño onto the pizza before baking.
- Add More Veggies: Beyond red onion, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, black olives, or even some spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Just be sure to pre-cook any watery vegetables to prevent a soggy crust.
- Different Meats: While beef is classic, try making your meatballs with ground pork, Italian sausage, or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor profile.
- Crust Alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier or gluten-free option, consider using a cauliflower crust or a whole wheat pizza dough.
- Garlic Lover’s Dream: Roast a head of garlic and spread the softened cloves onto the pizza sauce before adding other toppings for an extra boost of sweet, mellow garlic flavor.
What to Serve with Meatball Pizza
A hearty Meatball Pizza makes a meal in itself, but pairing it with a few complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the pizza. It adds freshness and a refreshing crunch.
- Caesar Salad: For a more robust salad option, a classic Caesar salad with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons pairs wonderfully with Italian flavors.
- Garlic Knots or Breadsticks: Extra bread is always welcome! Serve warm garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks for dipping in any extra pizza sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini can add a healthy and flavorful component to your meal.
- Antipasto Platter: Kick off your pizza night with a small antipasto platter featuring olives, cured meats, and marinated vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got questions about making the perfect Meatball Pizza? We’ve got answers!
- Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes, absolutely! You can prepare and cook the meatballs up to 2-3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and using on your pizza.
- What if I don’t have a pizza stone? No problem! A large, heavy baking sheet works perfectly fine. Make sure to preheat it in the oven along with the oven itself to help create a crispy crust. A pizza pan can also be used.
- How do I prevent my pizza crust from getting soggy? Several factors contribute to a crispy crust: ensure your oven and pizza stone/baking sheet are fully preheated, don’t overload the toppings, and if using watery vegetables, pre-cook them slightly to remove excess moisture.
- Can I use a different type of ground meat for the meatballs? Yes, you can use ground pork, ground turkey (though it might be leaner, so adjust fat or add moisture), or a combination of beef and pork for your meatballs.
- Is it necessary to slice the meatballs in half? While not strictly necessary, slicing them in half allows them to lay flatter on the pizza, ensures more even distribution of meatball flavor in each bite, and prevents the pizza from becoming too bulky.
More Irresistible Pizza Creations
If you’ve loved this Meatball Pizza, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic pizza recipes from our kitchen. Each offers a unique flavor adventure perfect for your next pizza night!
- Caprese Pizza: A fresh and vibrant take with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Taco Pizza: A fun, Tex-Mex inspired pizza loaded with all your favorite taco toppings.
- Egg Pizza with Creamed Spinach: A delightful and unique pizza, perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
- White Pizza Recipe: A cheesy, garlicky dream with no red sauce, just pure indulgence.
- Breakfast Pizza: Start your day right with a savory pizza inspired by classic carbonara.
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza: All the zesty, spicy flavor of buffalo wings on a pizza!
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Meatball Pizza
Pin Recipe
Comfort food at its finest – this Meatball Pizza is topped with homemade meatballs, onions and lots of cheese. Elevate your pizza night with this delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Meatballs:
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup fine breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of thyme
Pizza:
- 1 pound pizza dough*
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Shredded basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF (200°C). (If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while the oven is preheating.)
- Cover a baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine all of the meatball ingredients. Mix it all together, being careful not to overwork the meat. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs until they are cooked through, about 15 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and increase the temperature to 450ºF (230°C).
- Let the meatballs cool a few minutes, then slice each meatball in half.
- Stretch or roll the pizza dough out into a 12” circle. (See my pizza dough post for all my tips and tricks.)
- Spread the pizza sauce over the crust, then top with the halved meatballs and red onions. Sprinkle both cheeses over the top.
- Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Before serving, sprinkle with the basil.
Recipe Notes:
*I like my pizza crust a little thinner, so I will use about 12 oz of dough per pizza instead of 1 pound.
See my pizza dough post for all of my pizza baking tips and tricks.
This recipe was updated July of 2023. The original recipe used a packaged seasoning mix for the meatballs and this now uses an easy homemade mix of spices. The recipe was also cut down to one pizza instead of two.
Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 287kcal (14%),
Carbohydrates: 30g (10%),
Protein: 15g (30%),
Fat: 12g (18%),
Saturated Fat: 4g (25%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 540mg (180%),
Sodium: 551mg (24%),
Fiber: 3g (13%),
Sugar: 8g (9%)