Cheesy Meatballs with Marinara Sauce: A Flavor-Packed Comfort Meal

Craving a comforting, delicious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare? These Cheesy Meatballs with Marinara Sauce are the ultimate dish for satisfying your hunger. With perfectly seasoned meatballs baked in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, this meal is full of flavor and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or a cozy dinner with loved ones, this recipe is both comforting and simple to make!

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken for a lighter option)
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade, if preferred)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

For Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in the skillet, turning them to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. This should take about 5 minutes. They do not need to be fully cooked at this point since they will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Cook the Marinara Sauce

1. While the meatballs are browning, pour the marinara sauce into a baking dish. Season the sauce with garlic powder and dried oregano for extra flavor.
2. Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them into the marinara sauce, making sure they are covered with sauce.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. After placing the meatballs in the marinara sauce, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F for beef).

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Once the meatballs are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a touch of color and fresh flavor.
3. Serve your cheesy meatballs with pasta, over rice, in a sub roll for a sandwich, or simply with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Meatballs:

• Use a combination of ground beef and pork for extra juiciness in the meatballs, or go for a leaner option like ground turkey or chicken.
• To ensure your meatballs stay juicy, don’t overmix the meatball mixture—just mix until combined.
• If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mix them into the meatballs.
• For a golden, crispy texture, broil the meatballs for 2-3 minutes after baking to get a crispy crust on the cheese.

Conclusion:

These Cheesy Meatballs with Marinara Sauce are the perfect comfort food that everyone will love. Tender, flavorful meatballs baked in savory marinara sauce and topped with melty cheese make for a dish that’s filling and delicious. Whether served over pasta, in a sandwich, or simply on their own, this recipe is a go-to for a hearty meal. Try it today and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness of this classic comfort food!