Baked Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Deliciously tender baked meatballs served in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs can substitute with crushed crackers or panko
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley fresh herbs enhance flavor
- 1 count egg binds the mixture
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce & Topping
- 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for melting on top
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated but avoid overmixing.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Baking & Simmering
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until browned and firm to the touch.
- In a large skillet, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat until bubbling.
- Add the baked meatballs to the marinara sauce and let them simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Top the meatballs with shredded mozzarella cheese and cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese for 2-3 minutes.
Serving
- Serve the meatballs hot over spaghetti, in meatball subs, or on their own.
Notes
For best flavor, serve the meatballs over spaghetti and garnish with fresh parsley. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.