Cheesy Baked Meatballs: A Comfort Food Classic

These Cheesy Baked Meatballs are the perfect combination of hearty, savory, and indulgent. Made with ground beef or turkey, Parmesan, and Italian seasonings, they’re baked in marinara sauce and topped with melty mozzarella cheese. This simple yet delicious recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining. Serve them with pasta, bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Prepped in just 15 minutes and baked to perfection.
• Cheesy Comfort Food: Melty mozzarella on top makes every bite extra delicious.
• Versatile: Serve as a main dish, appetizer, or sandwich filling.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead of time.
• Kid-Friendly: A surefire hit for even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Meatballs

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey: Either works great; turkey is a leaner option.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the meatballs.
• 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a savory, aromatic flavor.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for classic Italian flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the flavor of the meatballs.

For Baking

• 2 cups marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara for a rich tomato base.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates a bubbly, gooey topping.

Optional Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix the ingredients gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

1. Roll the mixture into 12-14 evenly sized meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
2. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce and Cheese

1. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, ensuring each one is coated in sauce.
2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
2. Check for doneness by cutting into one of the meatballs or using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for ground beef or turkey.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Baked Meatballs

1. Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat mixture can result in dense, tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
2. Even Sizing: Roll the meatballs to the same size to ensure even cooking.
3. Grease the Baking Dish: This prevents the meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
4. Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-packaged cheese, which can contain anti-caking agents.
5. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are fully cooked and safe to eat.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesy baked meatballs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides:

• Pasta: Serve over spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne for a classic Italian meal.
• Garlic Bread: Sop up the sauce with warm garlic bread or breadsticks.
• Zoodles or Spaghetti Squash: For a lighter, low-carb option, serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or mixed green salad for a fresh contrast.
• Sandwiches: Stuff the meatballs into a toasted sub roll for a melty meatball sub.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Meatballs: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Herbed Meatballs: Mix in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or basil for an herby flavor.
3. Stuffed Meatballs: Place a small cube of mozzarella inside each meatball for a gooey, cheesy center.
4. Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or a mix of lentils and breadcrumbs instead of ground beef or turkey.
5. Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for regular breadcrumbs.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: ~28g
• Fat: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~12g
• Fiber: ~2g

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

• Let the meatballs cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Freezing:

• Freeze cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Yes, you can use ground chicken, pork, or a combination of meats for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare the meatballs and store them (uncooked) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?

You can substitute crushed crackers, panko, or even oats for breadcrumbs.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Sure! Finely dice vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms and mix them into the meatball mixture for extra nutrients.

5. What’s the best way to prevent the meatballs from drying out?

Using eggs and breadcrumbs helps retain moisture, and baking them in marinara sauce keeps them juicy and flavorful.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Baked Meatballs are a comforting, versatile dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Perfectly tender and topped with bubbly cheese, this recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again. Try it today and enjoy every delicious, cheesy bite!

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