Here’s a savory baked meatball recipe topped with gooey melted cheese and fragrant herbs — perfect for pasta night, sandwiches, or as a hearty appetizer. 🧀🍅🍖
🍽️ Baked Meatballs with Melted Cheese & Herbs
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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2 Tbsp milk
For topping:
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2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or jarred)
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1–1½ cups shredded mozzarella (or provolone)
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2 Tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
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Preheat oven:
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. -
Mix the meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and milk.
Mix gently with your hands until just combined — don’t overmix or the meatballs can turn tough. -
Form the meatballs:
Roll mixture into 1½-inch balls (about golf-ball size) and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet or in a baking dish. -
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C). -
Add sauce & cheese:
Spoon marinara sauce evenly over the baked meatballs.
Sprinkle mozzarella (and extra Parmesan if desired) generously on top. -
Bake again:
Return to the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Garnish & serve:
Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley over the top before serving.
🍝 Serving Ideas
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Serve over spaghetti or zucchini noodles.
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Make cheesy meatball subs on toasted hoagie rolls.
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Pair with garlic bread and a side salad for a full meal.
Would you like me to give you a spicy version (with chili flakes and pepper jack cheese) or a classic Italian-style version with homemade marinara?
