Baked Meatballs with Rich Marinara Sauce for a Cozy Dinner
By Isabella Quinn
Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Total
30 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Baked meatballs are a common home meal dish made with juicy meatballs and tomato sauce. Baked meatballs are good for a quick weeknight or party meal. Adding homemade herbs and Parmesan cheese to baked meatballs prepared at home enhances their flavor. Baked meatballs can be served on their own or with spaghetti or other sandwich fillings. Baked meatballs are also enjoyable simply for their aroma.
Ingredients
- •1 pound ground beef (use lean for healthier option)
- •2 teaspoons garlic powder
- •2 teaspoons onion powder
- •1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- •½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- •½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- •1 large egg (acts as a binder)
- •½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- •⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- •½ cup lukewarm water
- •3 tablespoons olive oil
- •2 cloves garlic (minced)
- •¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- •1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- •½ teaspoon salt
- •1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- •1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- •extra Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, egg, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
- 3
Gradually mix in lukewarm water until just combined, avoiding over-mixing.
- 4
Roll about one tablespoon of the mixture into balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- 5
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- 6
While meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a medium pan over medium-low heat.
- 7
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden.
- 8
If desired, add crushed red pepper flakes.
- 9
Pour in crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, and Italian seasoning, stirring well.
- 10
Simmer the sauce for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 11
Once meatballs are done, gently toss them in the marinara sauce.
- 12
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition (per serving)
70
Calories
5g
Protein
5g
Fat
2g
Carbs
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