Juicy meatballs simmered in rich marinara and baked with melted cheese, served hot and bubbly with crusty bread—an Italian comfort classic perfect for sharing. These tender, flavor-packed meatballs are ideal for cozy dinners, casual entertaining, or satisfying weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce delivers everything you love about classic Italian cuisine: savory meats, aromatic herbs, melted cheese, and a vibrant tomato sauce. Baking the meatballs keeps them tender while adding richness from the marinara and gooey mozzarella topping. This recipe is easy to prepare, family-friendly, and pairs wonderfully with pasta, bread, or even on its own as a hearty main dish.

ingredients

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

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the marinara and baking:

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan
• Extra parsley for garnish

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or clay casserole dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, parmesan, milk, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
3. Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil.
4. Bake the meatballs for 15–18 minutes, until lightly browned and just cooked through.
5. In the prepared baking dish, spread the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. Nestle the baked meatballs into the sauce.
6. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella and the additional grated parmesan.
7. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Serve hot with crusty bread, over pasta, or alongside a green salad.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• All-Beef Option: Use only ground beef for a leaner variation.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or sauce.
• Stuffed Meatballs: Insert a small cube of mozzarella into each meatball before baking for a cheesy center.
• Herb Blend: Use a mix of basil and thyme instead of oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats in place of regular breadcrumbs.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered, for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power for 2–3 minutes. This dish also freezes well—cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can form and refrigerate the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Bake just before serving.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, a good-quality jarred marinara works well. You can also use homemade if preferred.

What’s the best cheese for topping?

Mozzarella melts beautifully and complements the meatballs. Parmesan adds extra flavor and browning.

Can I bake the meatballs directly in the sauce?

You can, but pre-baking them adds flavor and helps them hold their shape better.

How do I prevent tough meatballs?

Avoid overmixing the meat and ingredients. Mix just until combined and handle gently.

Can I make this dish without pork?

Yes, substitute the ground pork with more ground beef or use ground chicken or turkey.

Are these meatballs good for subs?

Absolutely. Spoon the meatballs and sauce onto toasted sub rolls, top with mozzarella, and broil briefly until melted.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added to the marinara before baking.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, both baked meatballs and meatballs in sauce freeze well. Store in portions for easy reheating.

What pasta goes best with these meatballs?

Spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni work well. The sauce clings nicely to tube-shaped pasta.

Conclusion

Baked Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce is a timeless, comforting dish that’s rich in flavor and easy to make. With tender meatballs, hearty tomato sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying recipe that can be served in many ways. Whether enjoyed on its own, over pasta, or in a sandwich, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for family dinners or gatherings.

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