Here’s a delicious recipe for Cheesy Meatball Bake that combines meatballs and cheese for a French-inspired treat!
Ingredients:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Bake:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and brown the meatballs on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). You may need to do this in batches. They don’t need to be cooked through, as they will finish cooking in the oven.
- Prepare the Bake: In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the browned meatballs on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Gruyère cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
Tips:
- For added flavor, mix in some Italian herbs like oregano or thyme into the meatball mixture.
- You can also add sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to the marinara sauce for extra nutrition.
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Meatball Bake!
