Meatballs with Cheese and Marinara Sauce Recipe

Introduction

These meatballs with cheese and marinara sauce are a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any weeknight meal. Juicy meatballs baked to golden perfection and topped with melty cheese and savory tomato sauce make a crowd-pleasing combination.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken, or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone/Monterey Jack)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro/dried parsley)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (or garlic flakes)
• 1 tsp thyme (or oregano)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 390°F (200°C). In a large bowl, add the ground beef.
2. Step 2: Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, chili flakes, parsley, pepper, thyme, garlic, and egg to the bowl.
3. Step 3: Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
4. Step 4: Use a #20 scoop or your hands to form evenly sized meatballs.
5. Step 5: Place the meatballs in an oven-safe dish in a single layer.
6. Step 6: Bake the meatballs for 15 minutes.
7. Step 7: Remove the dish from the oven and flip the meatballs to brown the other side.
8. Step 8: Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes until golden brown.
9. Step 9: Take the dish out and pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, making sure they are all covered.
10. Step 10: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauced meatballs.
11. Step 11: Bake again for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, browned, and bubbly.
12. Step 12: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For leaner meatballs, substitute ground turkey or chicken, or add pork for extra moisture and flavor.
• Try different cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
• If fresh parsley is unavailable, dried parsley or even cilantro can be used for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit entirely for a milder dish.
• Make your own marinara sauce for a fresher, homemade taste.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15 minutes. You can also microwave leftovers, but baking helps maintain their texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, cooked meatballs freeze well. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They keep for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Can I cook these meatballs on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes, you can pan-fry the meatballs over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Then add the marinara sauce and cheese, cover, and cook until the cheese melts. Baking, however, gives a more even cook and hands-off method.

Meatballs with Cheese and Marinara Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 121 reviews

This classic Meatballs with Cheese and Marinara Sauce recipe features juicy ground beef meatballs seasoned with herbs and spices, baked to golden perfection, and then smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Ideal as a comforting main dish, these oven-baked meatballs offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures perfect for any dinner table.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (about 16 meatballs) 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef (substitute with ground turkey or chicken for leaner option)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro or dried parsley)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (or garlic flakes)
• 1 tsp thyme (or oregano)
• 1 large egg

Toppings and Sauce

• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone, Monterey Jack)
• Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the meatballs.
2. Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with Parmesan cheese, salt, chili flakes, parsley, black pepper, thyme, minced garlic, and egg. Mix thoroughly to blend all flavors evenly throughout the meat.
3. Shape Meatballs: Use a #20 scoop or tablespoon to portion out even-sized meatballs. Using your hands, shape the scooped mixture into smooth, round balls for uniform cooking.
4. Initial Baking: Arrange the meatballs in a single layer on an oven-safe dish. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes to begin cooking through.
5. Flip Meatballs: Remove the dish from the oven and carefully flip each meatball to ensure even browning and cooking on all sides.
6. Continue Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked thoroughly.
7. Add Marinara Sauce: Remove the dish from the oven and evenly pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are all well-coated.
8. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauced meatballs for a gooey, cheesy topping.
9. Final Bake: Place the dish back in the oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves. Serve hot for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Notes

• You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner variation.
• Mix ground beef with pork to enhance juiciness if desired.
• Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper cheese flavor.
• Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
• Ensure even-sized meatballs for uniform cooking by using a scoop.
• Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: meatballs, cheese, marinara sauce, baked meatballs, Italian recipe, comfort food