Cozy Meatball Parmesan Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Savory Flavor: Made with perfectly seasoned meatballs and rich marinara sauce.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it over your favorite side dishes or turn it into a sandwich filling.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time to save effort on busy days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup dry breadcrumbs or 4 slices stale white bread
• 2 tablespoons milk, cream, or buttermilk
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided into thirds
• 1½ teaspoons dried parsley
• 1½ teaspoons dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1½ pounds ground beef or a blend of beef and another meat (e.g., lamb or chicken)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ pound fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 2-inch pieces

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs: In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs with milk and let sit for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: Add eggs, salt, pepper, ⅓ of the Parmesan, parsley, basil, and oregano to the breadcrumbs and stir until combined.
4. Incorporate the Meat: Gently mix in the ground meat, being careful not to overwork it to keep the meatballs tender.
5. Shape the Meatballs: Form into meatballs about 1½ inches in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake the Meatballs: Bake for 20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
7. Assemble the Dish: Reduce the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish, add the meatballs, and cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Top with ⅓ of the Parmesan.
8. Bake Again: Bake for 20-30 minutes until the sauce is bubbly.
9. Add the Cheese: Place mozzarella slices on top of the meatballs, sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan, and bake until the cheese melts and turns golden.
10. Serve: Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Different Proteins: Substitute ground beef with chicken, lamb, or a combination of your choice.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with provolone, fontina, or Asiago for a different flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or meat mixture for heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Place cooked and cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

What type of ground meat can I use?

You can use ground beef, chicken, or lamb, depending on your preference. A mix of two meats can also add great flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them. Assemble and bake the dish when ready to serve.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely. Choose a high-quality marinara sauce to complement the flavors of the dish.

Can I freeze Meatball Parmesan?

Yes, freeze the cooked meatballs separately or with the sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or after thawing in the fridge.

Can I make this dish without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even almond flour as a substitute.

How do I prevent the meatballs from becoming dry?

Avoid overmixing the meat mixture and use meat with some fat content to keep the meatballs juicy.

What side dishes go well with Meatball Parmesan?

Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, polenta, or alongside garlic bread and a fresh salad.

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?

While fresh mozzarella is recommended for its creaminess, pre-shredded mozzarella can be used as a convenient alternative.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrients.

What other spices can I add to the meatballs?

Feel free to experiment with spices like smoked paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Meatball Parmesan is a delightful dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and versatile. Perfect for family dinners or a special weekend meal, this recipe is sure to please a crowd. Try it with your favorite sides and savor every bite