Imagine tender, juicy meatballs, baked to golden perfection and smothered in gooey melted cheese. Cheesy baked meatballs are the perfect comfort food for any occasion, whether it’s a cosy family dinner or an appetizer for your next gathering.
These meatballs combine the savoury goodness of seasoned meat with the richness of the marinara sauce and a generous layer of cheese. They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and loved by all ages. Packed with protein and calcium, they’re a treat you can feel good about serving.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and milk.
Mix thoroughly but gently with your hands or a fork. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 18-20 meatballs.
Arrange them in the greased baking dish, leaving a bit of space between each. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. The meatballs should be firm and slightly browned but not fully cooked at this stage. Remove the dish from the oven and pour marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, ensuring they’re fully coated.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the meatballs. You can also add extra Parmesan for a sharper flavour. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatballs are fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 74°C/165°F).
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of colour and flavour. Serve hot.
Expert Tips for Success;
Meat Mix: A blend of beef and pork adds extra juiciness and flavour to the meatballs.
Even Cooking: Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized meatballs that cook evenly.
Cheese Variations: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or a mix of cheeses for a unique twist.
Sauce Enhancement: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
Customization Ideas and Variations;
Dietary Needs: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Gluten-Free: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko.
Vegetarian: Substitute meat with a plant-based ground alternative.
Extra Flavor: Add chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions;
Pair cheesy baked meatballs with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up the sauce. For a complete meal, serve them over spaghetti, creamy polenta, or alongside a fresh green salad. Add a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty and balanced dinner.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips;
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from overbrowning.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and assemble just before baking. You can also freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Cheesy baked meatballs are a surefire way to bring smiles to the dinner table. With their savory flavors, gooey cheese, and tender texture, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Whether served as a main dish or an appetizer, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and make your mealtime more special.
Ingredients;
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
