Description
This classic Meatball Parmesan Recipe features tender, baked meatballs made from a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic. Baked to perfection and smothered in rich marinara sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this hearty Italian-American dish is perfect served over pasta, on toasted subs, or with a fresh green salad. Simple to prepare and deeply satisfying, it’s a family favorite full of robust flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Sauce and Topping
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup additional grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare for assembling the meatballs and sauce.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Form and Bake Meatballs: Shape the meat mixture into evenly sized meatballs and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until they are browned and fully cooked through.
- Assemble Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place the baked meatballs over the sauce and pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and additional grated Parmesan cheese over the sauced meatballs. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Serve hot over pasta, in toasted sub rolls, or alongside a green salad.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, on toasted sub rolls, or with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute all beef or all pork if preferred based on taste or availability.
- For extra tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep it light and juicy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
