Cheesy Baked Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
Cheesy baked meatballs are a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners, parties, or potlucks. This dish combines juicy, savory meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, baked to perfection with a layer of gooey melted cheese. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with pasta, bread, or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup (50g) breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
• 2 cups (500ml) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For the Topping:
• 1½ cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
• Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them on a plate or tray.
3. Sear the Meatballs (Optional):
• Heat a skillet with a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sear the meatballs for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds flavor but can be skipped.
4. Assemble the Dish:
• Spread half of the marinara sauce in the greased baking dish. Place the meatballs on top, then cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
5. Bake the Meatballs:
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Add the Cheese:
• Remove the foil, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatballs, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
• Sprinkle fresh parsley over the cheesy baked meatballs and serve warm with your choice of sides.
History of Meatballs
The origins of meatballs can be traced back to ancient Persia, where meat was minced, mixed with spices, and cooked into small, flavorful balls. This culinary concept spread through trade routes to Europe and beyond. The Italian-American version, often served with marinara sauce and cheese, gained popularity in the early 20th century as Italian immigrants adapted their recipes in the United States.
Benefits
• Protein-Rich: Ground meat and cheese provide a great source of protein.
• Versatile: Can be served with pasta, rice, or bread, or enjoyed on its own.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of meat, marinara sauce, and melted cheese offers a comforting and indulgent meal.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different seasonings, meats, or even vegetarian alternatives like lentils or mushrooms.
Formation and Variations
• Meat Substitutes: Use turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for dietary preferences.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or grated zucchini.
• Extra Cheesy: Stuff the meatballs with a small cube of mozzarella for an oozy cheese surprise.
Why People Love Cheesy Baked Meatballs
Cheesy baked meatballs are loved for their simplicity, rich flavors, and versatility. The combination of tender meatballs, zesty marinara sauce, and melted cheese is irresistible to both children and adults. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 2 Meatballs):
• Calories: 250
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion
Cheesy baked meatballs are the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, hearty flavors with the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or indulging in a cozy dinner for two, this dish is bound to be a hit. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe worth mastering and sharing.
Lovers of Cheesy Baked Meatballs
From pasta enthusiasts to cheese lovers, this dish appeals to a wide audience. Meatball lovers especially enjoy the cheesy baked version for its added layer of indulgence. Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread and a glass of red wine for an unforgettable meal!
Enjoy making and sharing this irresistible dish!