Description
Cheesy Baked Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
These cheesy baked meatballs are the perfect combination of savory, saucy, and cheesy! Perfect for dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they’re easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef or pork
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce and Topping:
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into small, even-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned (they don’t need to cook through). Set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and warm over medium heat. Nestle the meatballs into the sauce, covering them partially.
Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the meatballs and sauce.
Bake to Perfection:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the skillet or baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
Pro Tip: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce!
Enjoy these Cheesy Baked Meatballs – a comforting, delicious dish that’s sure to be a favorite!
