Easy Italian Baked Meatballs 🍝🍅✨


 

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or mix beef + pork/veal)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Quick Marinara:

  • 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp dried basil

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp sugar (balances acidity)

(Optional: Fresh basil for garnish!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.

  • In a bowl, mix all meatball ingredients until just combined (don’t overmix!).

  • Roll into 1.5-inch balls and place on the sheet.

2. Bake

  • Bake 18-20 mins, flipping halfway, until browned and cooked through.

3. Make the Marinara

  • Heat olive oil in a saucepan. Sauté garlic for 30 secs.

  • Add crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and sugar. Simmer 10 mins.

4. Combine & Serve!

  • Toss meatballs in the sauce or serve on the side.

Pro Tips for Perfect Meatballs

🧅 Extra flavor? Add ½ grated onion to the mix.
🧀 Cheesier? Stuff each meatball with a small mozzarella cube.
🍝 Serving ideas:

  • Spaghetti & meatballs

  • Meatball subs (toast with provolone!)

  • Appetizers (skewer with toothpicks)

Final Thoughts

These Italian Baked Meatballs are weeknight heroes—easy, healthy, and full of flavor. Will you make them for pasta or subs? Let us know in the comments!

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