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Easy Meatballs and Rice Bowl Recipe

Easy Meatballs and Rice Bowl Recipe

This Easy Meatballs and Rice Bowl is a hearty, comforting meal that comes together fast—perfect for busy weeknights or stress-free meal prep. Juicy homemade meatballs are served over warm rice and finished with your favorite sauce, making this bowl endlessly customizable and family-friendly. Whether you keep it classic or switch up the flavors, it’s a reliable, protein-packed dinner everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

  • 1 large egg

  • ¼ cup grated onion

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or seasoning of choice)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Rice Bowl

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

  • ½ cup sauce of choice (teriyaki, marinara, BBQ, sweet chili, etc.)

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped parsley or green onions

  • Sesame seeds

  • Shredded cheese

  • Chili flakes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and seasoning.
Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

2. Form the Meatballs

Roll mixture into about 16 meatballs, roughly 1 inch in diameter.

3. Cook the Meatballs (Choose One Method)

  • Pan-Fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs, turning occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until browned and cooked through.

  • Bake: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.

  • Air Fryer: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.

4. Warm the Sauce

Heat your chosen sauce in a small pan or microwave until warm.

5. Prepare the Rice

Cook rice according to package instructions or reheat pre-cooked rice.

6. Assemble the Bowls

Divide rice between four bowls. Add 3–4 meatballs per bowl, spoon sauce over the top, and finish with your favorite toppings.

7. Serve

Serve hot, or portion into containers for easy meal prep.

Notes

  • Grated onion keeps meatballs juicy and flavorful.

  • Don’t overwork the meat—gentle mixing makes tender meatballs.

  • Switch sauces to change the vibe: marinara for Italian, teriyaki for Asian-inspired, BBQ for smoky comfort.

  • Add veggies like steamed broccoli or roasted peppers for extra balance.