Cheesy Meatball Parmesan

Juicy, golden-baked meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce and smothered in melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese—this Cheesy Meatball Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual weekend gatherings, this dish comes together in under an hour and delivers all the classic Italian-inspired flavors your family loves.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Meatball Parmesan is a one-skillet wonder that’s hearty, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. The meatballs are tender and well-seasoned, the marinara is rich and tangy, and the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a bubbly, golden topping that’s irresistible. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both affordable and easy to make, with minimal cleanup and endless serving possibilities—pasta, crusty bread, or sandwich-style.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce and Topping:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 15–20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
5. In an oven-safe skillet or baking dish, pour the marinara sauce and gently nestle in the cooked meatballs.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
7. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: 310 kcal

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or sauce for a touch of heat.
• Cheese-Stuffed: Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center of each meatball before baking for a gooey surprise.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the marinara sauce for added nutrition.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles or roasted cauliflower instead of pasta.
• Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs (with or without sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or gently heat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or sauce if needed to keep moist.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape and bake the meatballs ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze them until ready to use.

What type of marinara sauce is best?

You can use store-bought marinara or homemade. Look for a sauce with rich tomato flavor and minimal added sugar.

Can I cook the meatballs in the sauce instead of baking?

Yes, but baking first helps them hold their shape and develop flavor. You can simmer them in the sauce if preferred.

What’s the best cheese for topping?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, and Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish. A mix of both creates the best flavor and texture.

Can I use pre-cooked frozen meatballs?

Yes, thaw and heat them through in the marinara sauce before adding the cheese and baking.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger skillet or baking dish to accommodate extra meatballs and sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with spaghetti, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use only ground beef?

Yes, though a mix of beef and pork offers richer flavor and more moisture.

How do I prevent the meatballs from being dry?

Avoid overmixing the meat and use enough fat in the blend—beef with 15–20% fat content works best.

Conclusion

Cheesy Meatball Parmesan is a satisfying and versatile dish that brings bold Italian flavors to your dinner table with ease. From the juicy, tender meatballs to the bubbling cheese and zesty sauce, every bite delivers comfort and satisfaction. Whether served over pasta, on a hoagie roll, or enjoyed solo, it’s a go-to recipe for any busy cook seeking hearty, homemade flavor.

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