Description
Cheesy Baked Meatballs
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
½ lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Form the Meatballs:
Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them in the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix heavy cream and chicken broth. Pour the mixture over the meatballs.
Add Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top of the meatballs.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~420 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing. In your large bowl, combine the meats, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. When forming, lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking and ensure uniform, golf ball-sized spheres. Arrange them in the greased dish so they are snug but not crammed. For the sauce, whisk the cream and broth vigorously to fully combine before evenly pouring it around, not directly on top, of the meatballs to avoid washing off the cheese. Finally, distribute the mozzarella evenly for consistent coverage and browning.
Serving Suggestions
These rich, cheesy meatballs are incredibly versatile. For a classic comfort meal, serve them over a bed of spaghetti or creamy polenta to soak up the delicious sauce. They also make a fantastic sub sandwich filling when piled into a toasted hoagie roll. For a lighter option, pair them with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread. They are perfect as a hearty appetizer for a party, served straight from the dish with toothpicks.
How-to Summary
To make Cheesy Baked Meatballs: Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix beef, pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings. Form into balls and place in a greased dish. Whisk cream and broth, then pour around meatballs. Top with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and golden. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only ground beef? Yes, you can use 1.5 lbs of ground beef instead of the beef-pork mix, though the pork adds valuable fat and flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Substitute the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the raw meatballs in the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the cold sauce and cheese just before baking, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Why is my sauce separating? Separation can occur if the oven temperature is too high. Ensure your oven is accurately calibrated and avoid overbaking. Using full-fat cream helps maintain emulsion.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered oven dish at 325°F or in the microwave at reduced power to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meatball ingredients, which develops too much protein and results in a dense, tough texture.
- Packing the meatballs too tightly when rolling. Handle the mixture gently for a tender bite.
- Using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. For best results, shred your own mozzarella.
- Overcrowding the baking dish, which steams the meatballs instead of letting them brown properly. Use a dish large enough for some space between them.
- Not letting the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving, which allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Baked Meatballs are the epitome of hearty, satisfying comfort food. By combining simple ingredients with a straightforward baking method, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The step-by-step guide ensures success, while the serving ideas and FAQs provide flexibility for any occasion. Avoiding common pitfalls like overmixing ensures a perfectly tender result every time. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.