CHEESY BAKED MEATBALLS
INTRODUCTION
These cheesy baked meatballs are tender, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Packed with bell peppers, fresh herbs, spices, and melted cheese, they make a great appetizer, dinner entrée, or party dish. Baking them keeps them juicy while giving them an even cook, and the melted cheese on top adds a rich finish. This recipe is simple, delicious, and great for meal prep.
INGREDIENTS
For the meatballs
1.5 kg ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For topping
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
Optional
1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce to drizzle while baking
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare a large baking tray and lightly grease it with oil.
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, chopped onion, red bell pepper, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, spices, and the two cheeses.
Mix everything together until fully combined. Do not overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
Scoop out portions and roll into medium-sized meatballs.
Place each meatball onto the baking tray, leaving a little space between each one.
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until cooked through.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each meatball.
Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
METHODS
Mixing method: Combine all ingredients thoroughly but gently.
Baking method: Oven-baked at high heat for juiciness.
Finishing method: Add cheese topping and melt until golden.
Optional saucy method: Drizzle marinara BEFORE adding cheese for extra moisture.
HISTORY
Meatballs originated in various forms across many cultures. Italian, Middle Eastern, and American cuisines all have versions using ground meats mixed with herbs and bread. The cheesy baked version is a modern twist inspired by American comfort cooking, where cheese is used to deepen flavor and create a more decadent, party-friendly dish.
BENEFITS
High in protein
Budget-friendly
Great for meal prep
Kid-friendly
Easy to freeze
Versatile for serving with pasta, rice, or sliders
FORMATION
These meatballs rely on binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs to hold their shape. The vegetables add moisture, while the cheese blends into the beef as it bakes, creating a soft and juicy texture. Baking instead of frying keeps the recipe cleaner and lighter.
NUTRITION
Approximate per meatball
Calories 150
Protein 12 g
Fat 9 g
Carbs 4 g
Varies depending on cheese and meat choice
CONCLUSION
These cheesy loaded meatballs are flavorful, tender, and perfect for any dinner table or gathering. Easy to prepare, simple to bake, and always delicious, they are a go-to recipe everyone will love.
LOVERS
People who enjoy cheesy comfort food
Fans of quick crowd-feeding meals
Anyone who loves meal-prepping hearty protein dishes
Kids and adults who love homemade, flavorful meatballs
If you want this recipe in Arabic or French, or want a version with no cheese, just tell me.