Are you in the mood for a comforting meal that’s not only delicious but also bursting with cheesy goodness? Look no further, because our Cheesy Oven-Baked Meatballs are here to satisfy your cravings and elevate your taste buds to a whole new level. This recipe takes classic meatballs and gives them a cheesy twist that will leave you craving more. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and let’s dive into the world of flavorful, cheesy, oven-baked meatballs.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
For the Cheesy Filling:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Making the Meatballs
- Prepare Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s nice and hot when your meatballs are ready to bake.
- Mix the Meat: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped parsley, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
- Form the Meatballs: Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a small amount of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese in the center, then form the meat mixture around the cheese, creating a meatball. Continue until you’ve used all the meat mixture.
Baking the Meatballs
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil.
- Arrange the Meatballs: Place your cheese-stuffed meatballs in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are evenly spaced.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano. Mix well and pour this sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake It to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese inside is wonderfully melted and gooey.
Variation
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Delight: Mix in some finely chopped spinach or mushrooms for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
- Mini Meatballs: Make smaller meatballs and serve them as appetizers at your next gathering.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses for the filling, such as gouda or blue cheese, for unique flavor profiles.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat mixture, avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs have reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Serve with Pasta: These meatballs are fantastic on their own, but you can serve them with your favorite pasta for a more substantial meal.
In conclusion, our Cheesy Oven-Baked Meatballs are a fantastic twist on a classic dish. The combination of savory meat and oozing cheese creates a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving these at a dinner party or simply enjoying them on a cozy night in, the cheesy surprise in every bite will leave you and your guests delighted.
So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. And remember, the best part about cooking is the joy of experimenting, so feel free to add your own unique twist to this already delicious dish. Enjoy your cheesy, meaty creation, and happy cooking!
