Juicy, flavor-packed beef and pork meatballs baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce and topped with bubbling mozzarella—these Cheesy Baked Meatballs in Marinara are the ultimate comfort food. With a golden, cheesy crust and tender, herby center, they’re an irresistible classic that’s perfect for family dinners or hearty gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together everything you crave in a comforting meal: savory meatballs, aromatic herbs, bold marinara, and melty cheese. The meatballs are tender and moist thanks to a mix of ground beef and pork, and the panko-milk blend keeps them soft and juicy. Baked in a bath of flavorful tomato sauce and finished with melted mozzarella, this is a no-fuss recipe that delivers big on flavor.

ingredients

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

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/3 cup milk
1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup grated yellow onion
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
32 oz jar or homemade marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to soak.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, garlic, eggs, Parmesan, basil, grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Add the soaked breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. Mix gently with clean hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, covering them well.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, and return to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or over pasta.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Variations

Turkey Option: Use ground turkey in place of pork for a lighter version.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
Cheese Blend: Mix in provolone or fontina for a richer, creamier melt.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko or almond meal as a binder.
Veggie Boost: Add finely grated zucchini or carrots to the meat mixture for added nutrition.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes until hot. This dish also freezes well—cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can shape the meatballs a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Bake when ready.

Do I need to brown the meatballs before baking?

No, they cook fully in the sauce and stay tender without browning.

Can I use just beef or just pork?

Yes, but the combination of both gives the best flavor and texture. Using only beef results in a leaner meatball, while all-pork is richer.

What’s the best type of marinara sauce?

A high-quality jarred sauce or homemade marinara with garlic and herbs enhances the dish. Choose one without added sugar for best results.

Can I use fresh mozzarella?

Yes, but be sure to pat it dry and slice thinly to prevent excess moisture.

Are these meatballs freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce and reheat as needed for quick meals.

What sides pair well with this dish?

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

How do I keep the meatballs from drying out?

Soaking the panko in milk and not overmixing the meat ensures juicy, tender meatballs.

Can I make mini meatballs?

Yes, adjust the size and reduce baking time by 5–10 minutes for smaller meatballs.

How do I make this dish more kid-friendly?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and serve with familiar sides like pasta or breadsticks.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Meatballs in Marinara are a timeless comfort food that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and always satisfying. Whether served over pasta, spooned into a hoagie roll, or enjoyed straight from the dish, these meatballs offer a hearty, homemade experience that’s perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or Sunday dinners.