Baked meatballs with cheese is a mouthwatering dish that combines the savory goodness of seasoned meatballs and the creamy richness of melted cheese. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture, with juicy meatballs baked to perfection and topped with melted cheese that adds an irresistible creamy finish. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply craving a comforting homemade meal, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and milk together. Pour this mixture into the ground beef mixture and combine until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using your hands, form the meat mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the dried oregano and basil for added flavor.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and carefully place each meatball into the marinara sauce, making sure they are fully coated.
- Transfer the sauced meatballs to a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the cheesy baked meatballs with your favorite side, such as pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this cheesy meatball dish!
This simple yet delicious recipe brings together the best of both worlds – juicy meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and a gooey, cheesy topping that elevates the dish to a whole new level. The combination of savory meat and creamy cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, these baked meatballs with cheese will undoubtedly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.