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Craving a comforting and satisfying meal that’s also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than these mouthwatering baked meatballs in tomato sauce, topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese. This classic dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich, tangy tomato sauce, all crowned with bubbly, golden-brown mozzarella. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and fill your belly. And the best part? It’s all made in one oven-safe skillet, minimizing cleanup!

What truly sets these meatballs apart is the combination of simple ingredients and careful preparation. The breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley add depth of flavor and create a perfectly tender texture. The tomato sauce, simmered with a touch of sugar, balances the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a rich, savory base for the meatballs. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for any occasion. Plus, the oven-baking method ensures even cooking and eliminates the need for constant monitoring. Get ready to experience meatball perfection!

Why You’ll Love These Baked Meatballs

Easy One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup thanks to baking everything in a single oven-safe skillet.

Tender and Flavorful: The combination of ingredients creates perfectly tender and juicy meatballs.
Comfort Food Classic: A timeless dish that everyone will love.
Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences with different cheeses, herbs, or spices.

Ingredients for Baked Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil
24 ounces tomato sauce
1 teaspoon sugar

8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded

Let’s take a closer look at some of these key ingredients:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) for the best flavor and texture. Avoid overly lean ground beef, as it can result in dry meatballs.

Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together and create a tender texture. You can use plain breadcrumbs or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory flavor to the meatballs. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best results.
Tomato Sauce: Choose a good-quality tomato sauce for the best flavor. You can also use crushed tomatoes or tomato puree.

Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese adds a creamy, melty topping to the meatballs. Use low-moisture mozzarella cheese for the best results.

Step-by-Step Directions: Baking Your Meatballs

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and prevents the meatballs from drying out.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. This is the base for your flavourful and juicy meatballs!

Mix Gently: Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs. A light touch is key.
Form the Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking.
Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. This step creates a flavorful base for the tomato sauce.

Brown the Meatballs: Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. Searing the meatballs adds depth of flavor and helps them hold their shape during baking.
Remove and Set Aside: Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set aside. This prevents them from overcooking while you prepare the tomato sauce.
Add Tomato Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet. This creates a rich and flavorful base for your meatball masterpiece!

Add Sugar: Add sugar and stir to combine. The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
Simmer the Sauce: Bring the tomato sauce to a simmer. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and creates a richer sauce.
Nestle the Meatballs: Gently place the meatballs into the tomato sauce, nestling them evenly in the skillet. Ensure that the meatballs are partially submerged in the sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.

Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatballs and sauce. This creates a melty, bubbly topping that adds a creamy and cheesy dimension to the dish.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatballs are cooked through. Use a thermometer to check doneness, if necessary, ensuring the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Expert Tips & Serving Suggestions for Baked Meatballs

Here are a few tips to help you create the best baked meatballs in tomato sauce:

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough meatballs. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and garlic add a bright, aromatic flavor to the meatballs.
Brown the Meatballs: Searing the meatballs before baking adds depth of flavor and helps them hold their shape.

Simmer the Sauce: Simmering the tomato sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a richer sauce.
Don’t Overbake: Overbaking the meatballs can result in dry meatballs. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatballs are cooked through.

Serving Suggestions:

These baked meatballs in tomato sauce are delicious served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve them on hoagie rolls for a delicious meatball sub. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad would also be a great addition.

Cheese Variations:

While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Each cheese will add a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Storage and Reheating:

Leftover baked meatballs in tomato sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as this can make them tough.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Meatballs

1. Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork instead of ground beef. Keep in mind that different types of ground meat will have different flavors and textures. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with other ingredients, such as crushed crackers, rolled oats, or almond flour. These alternatives will help bind the meatballs together and create a tender texture.

3. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano cheese or Asiago cheese. These cheeses have a similar salty, savory flavor.

4. Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley?

Yes, you can. Use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for every 1/4 cup of fresh parsley. Keep in mind that fresh parsley will provide a brighter flavor. If using dried parsley, add it at the beginning of the cooking process to allow it to rehydrate and release its flavor.

5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many grocery stores now carry gluten-free breadcrumbs made from rice flour, almond flour, or other gluten-free ingredients.

6. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Form the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, follow the recipe instructions.

7. Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze these meatballs for up to 3 months. Allow the baked meatballs to cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in a skillet, oven, or microwave.

8. How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the skillet?

To prevent the meatballs from sticking to the skillet, make sure the skillet is properly preheated before adding the meatballs. You can also use a non-stick skillet or add a little bit more olive oil to the skillet.

9. Can I add vegetables to the tomato sauce?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables to the tomato sauce while it’s simmering. Onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms would all be delicious additions. Sauté the vegetables in the skillet before adding the tomato sauce.

10. What is the best way to serve these meatballs for a party?

For a party, you can serve the baked meatballs in a slow cooker or chafing dish to keep them warm. Provide small bowls or plates and forks or toothpicks for serving. You can also offer a variety of toppings, such as grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil.

11. What other spices can I add to the meatballs for extra flavor?

Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor of your meatballs! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick, while a dash of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the savory notes. Ground fennel seed is another excellent addition, imparting a slightly sweet and anise-like flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find your favorite spice combination!

12. Can I use fresh herbs other than parsley in the meatballs?

Absolutely! Fresh basil, oregano, or a combination of Italian herbs would be delicious in these meatballs. Just be sure to chop the herbs finely before adding them to the mixture. Remember that fresh herbs are more potent than dried herbs, so you may need to adjust the amount accordingly.

Conclusion: Get Ready to Enjoy Delicious Baked Meatballs!

So there you have it – a foolproof recipe for baked meatballs in tomato sauce that will impress your family and friends. This dish is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with a little love and care, can create something truly extraordinary. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to find your perfect meatball recipe. And most importantly, don’t forget to savor every bite!

Whether you’re serving these meatballs over pasta, on a sandwich, or simply enjoying them on their own, they’re sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience meatball bliss. Happy cooking!

Baked Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Mozzarella