Meatballs and Cheese Bake Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Prepare the meatballs:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
   • Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (they don’t need to be fully cooked as they will bake later).
4. Assemble the dish:
   • Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the prepared baking dish.
   • Arrange the meatballs over the sauce.
   • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs.
   • Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top, followed by cheddar cheese if desired.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatballs are fully cooked.
6. Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Would you like to adjust any ingredients or add a serving suggestion? 😊