When it comes to comfort food, few things rival the hearty and flavorful Italian Baked Meatballs. Bursting with the rich essence of herbs and spices, these tender meatballs are a perfect addition to pasta dishes, sandwiches, or even enjoyed on their own. In this blog post, we'll share a unique and delectable recipe that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy.
Ingredients
To make these mouthwatering Italian Baked Meatballs, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, chopped parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Form the Meatballs: Take a small portion of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and have achieved a beautiful golden brown color.
5. Add Marinara Sauce: Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to a baking dish or ovenproof skillet. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are generously coated.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs and marinara sauce, giving them a luscious layer of gooey goodness.
7. Broil to Perfection: Turn your oven to broil and place the baking dish back in the oven. Broil the meatballs for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Form meatballs and place them on a baking dish.
4. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs.
7. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (about 100g)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 9g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Vitamin A: 10% DV
- Vitamin C: 6% DV
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 15% DV
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Conclusion
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with these delightful Italian Baked Meatballs that are bursting with aromatic herbs and spices. Perfectly tender and coated with melted cheese, these meatballs will be a surefire hit at your dinner table. Whether you serve them as a comforting pasta accompaniment or in a savory sandwich, these delectable meatballs are sure to win the hearts of your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into the culinary magic of Italian Baked Meatballs for an unforgettable dining experience.
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