Weeknight Meatball and Marinara Bake with Mozzarella

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
3. 3 Form mixture into 1-inch balls.
4. 4 Place meatballs in a greased baking dish and pour marinara sauce over them.
5. 5 Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
6. 6 Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly.
7. 7 Optional: Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Oven

Variations

• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meatballs for extra flavor.

Substitutions

• If you don't have ground pork, use all ground beef or a mix of beef and turkey.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Side salad

Nutrition

Tips

• Use your hands to mix the meatball mixture for even distribution of ingredients.
• For a leaner option, substitute part of the beef with ground turkey.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.

FAQ