Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the simple pleasure of a warm, cheesy dish that brings the family together—especially when it comes to comfort food. That’s where our Ultimate Cheesy Skillet Meatball Bake comes into play! This hearty recipe combines succulent meatballs, gooey cheese, and a luscious tomato sauce, all baked together to create a bubbling, melty masterpiece.
Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this dish not only fills the belly but also wraps you in that nostalgic feeling of home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, the straightforward steps and minimal clean-up will have you whipping up this delightful meal in no time. So, grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the heartwarming world of comfort food with this irresistible meatball bake!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overwork the meat.
-
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.
-
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then brown the meatballs in batches for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden on all sides. Remove meatballs and set aside.
-
- In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and stir in the red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer for about 2 minutes.
-
- Nestle the browned meatballs back into the sauce, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
-
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the meatballs and sauce.
-
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
-
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Ground Beef – 1 pound (or a mix of ground beef and ground pork for extra flavor)
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup (preferably Italian seasoned)
- Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, grated (for extra flavor in meatballs)
- Mozzarella Cheese – 2 cups, shredded (for topping)
- Egg – 1 large (to bind the meatball mixture)
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced (adds aromatic flavor)
- Onion – 1 small, finely chopped (for depth in meatballs)
- Parsley – ¼ cup, chopped fresh (for a hint of freshness)
- Crushed Tomatoes – 1 can (28 oz) or homemade (for the base sauce)
- Italian Seasoning – 2 teaspoons (a blend of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Red Pepper Flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons (for cooking and flavor)
- Salt and Pepper – to taste (essential seasonings)
These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering, cheesy dish that will surely be a hit at family dinners!
Baking Process
-
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish will bake evenly throughout.
-
Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine your choice of ground meat (beef, pork, turkey, or a mix) with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined, being careful not to over-mix. Form the mixture into meatballs, roughly 1.5 inches in diameter, and set them aside on a plate.
-
Brown the Meatballs: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the skillet) and sear them until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. This step locks in the flavor and provides a lovely caramelization.
-
Add Sauce: After browning the meatballs, carefully pour your favorite marinara or tomato sauce over them in the skillet. Ensure the meatballs are mostly submerged in the sauce so they can absorb the flavors while baking.
-
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs and sauce. For an extra cheesy goodness, you can mix in some provolone or fontina cheese as well.
-
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown, and the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
-
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Once out of the oven, let the skillet cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Ultimate Cheesy Skillet Meatball Bake directly from the skillet for a warm, rustic presentation. Pair with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta or zoodles for a complete meal the whole family will love!
Serving Suggestions
This Ultimate Cheesy Skillet Meatball Bake is a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
-
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can add a nice touch.
-
Mixed Green Salad: Balance the richness of the meatball bake with a refreshing mixed green salad. Toss together arugula, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Add colorful roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. The slight char and sweetness will complement the meatballs beautifully.
-
Pasta or Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the skillet bake over a bed of al dente pasta or fluffy rice. The noodles or grains will absorb the flavors from the sauce, making every bite delightful.
-
Pickled Vegetables: For a zesty side, consider serving pickled vegetables like pickled red onions or cucumbers. Their tanginess will cut through the richness of the dish.
-
Herbed Yogurt or Sour Cream: A dollop of herbed yogurt or sour cream offers a creamy, tangy balance and can be drizzled over the meatballs just before serving.
-
Wine Pairing: If you’re in the mood for something special, a glass of red wine—particularly a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Merlot—pairs wonderfully with the savory meatballs.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this Ultimate Cheesy Skillet Meatball Bake is sure to bring comfort and joy to the table, making it a perfect family meal. Enjoy!
Conclusion
The Ultimate Cheesy Skillet Meatball Bake is the perfect dish to gather your family around the table for some quality time and comfort. Bursting with flavors, this hearty meal combines succulent meatballs with rich marinara sauce and a bubbling layer of melty cheese that will have everyone going back for seconds. It’s not just about the delicious taste; it’s also about the love and laughter shared while enjoying a delightful homemade dinner.
Whether you’re serving it on a cozy weeknight or at a weekend gathering, this skillet bake is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with minimal cleanup and easy prep, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the moment. So grab your skillet, gather your loved ones, and dig into a meal that not only satisfies the appetite but warms the heart. Happy cooking!
