These Meatballs Parmesan are the ultimate weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Both kids and adults will agree that this simple meal, made with homemade meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and topped with two kinds of cheese, is a winner you’ll want to add to your regular meal rotation.
I adore this Baked Meatballs Parmesan recipe for so many reasons. First, it’s a dish that pleases everyone, so you won’t have to deal with dinner-time battles. The meatballs are homemade but the recipe is designed to be straightforward, using ingredients you probably already have and with quick prep, so you can get it in the oven even on the busiest nights. It’s a meal that feels special enough for company but is fast enough for a packed evening.
Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd, so everyone will have plenty to enjoy. You can even make this Meatball Parmesan Bake ahead of time and freeze it for a busy night or use it as a meal prep option for the week. It’s a wholesome, delicious choice that’s both convenient and satisfying!
Parmesan Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds Ground pork
- 1 medium Onion chopped or shredded with a box grater
- 2 Large eggs
- ½ cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp Fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1 tbsp Fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried
- ½ tesp Salt or to taste
- ½ tsp Pepper or to taste
- 2 cups Marinara sauce
- 1½ cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into 24 equal-sized meatballs. Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket and air fry at 380°F for 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F.
- Assemble the Dish: Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of a skillet. Arrange the meatballs in the skillet and top each meatball with some of the remaining marinara sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the meatballs with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with extra basil if desired.
Notes
- Alternative Meats: You can use ground beef or a mix of ground pork and ground beef.
- Frying Option: Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet and fry the meatballs until golden, about 7 to 10 minutes.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 365Â kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Cholesterol | 128mg |
| Sodium | 730mg |
Can I Use Ground Turkey Or Chicken Instead Of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. These alternatives will still work well and create tasty meatballs, though they might be a bit leaner. Be sure to add a bit more seasoning or a splash of milk to keep them moist and flavorful.
How Do I Keep The Meatballs From Becoming Too Dry?
To prevent the meatballs from becoming too dry, make sure not to overmix the meat when combining it with the other ingredients. Adding ingredients like milk, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese helps keep the meatballs moist. Also, avoid baking them for too long—check them a few minutes before the recommended cooking time to ensure they remain tender.
Can I Make The Meatballs Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time. Prepare and shape the meatballs, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To cook, bake them straight from frozen or thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking.