Growing up, we used to have family gatherings where my mom would whip up her famous meatballs, and the aroma of garlic simmering in the kitchen would be enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I’ve taken her classic recipe and added a few of my own touches to create this hearty dish, which my kids adore. It’s filled with savory flavors and topped with melted cheese, making it a winner every time.
You don’t need to be a gourmet chef or have hours to spend in the kitchen to make this Meatball Bake. With just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have at home, you can create something that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some extra protein with the mix of beef and turkey!
So, whether you’re cooking for your kids after a long day or hosting a meal for friends, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on hand. It’s quick, it’s fulfilling, and most importantly, it’s made with love. Let’s get started!
How to Make Meatball Bake
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 250 g (8 oz) ground turkey
- 1 onion, grated
- ⅔ cup (67 g) breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 700 g passata (1 jar)
- 1.5 cups (360 ml) chicken broth
- 1 tsp white sugar (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup (113 g) freshly grated cheddar cheese or mozzarella
Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so that it’s nice and hot when your meatballs are ready to go in.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground turkey, grated onion, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Once everything is combined, crack in the egg and knead the mixture until it becomes smooth. Use a tablespoon to scoop out the mixture and roll it into bite-sized meatballs.
In an oven-safe skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned.
Now it’s time to add the passata and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper, and let this simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.
Carefully add your meatballs to the skillet, spacing them out evenly. Drizzle some of the sauce over each meatball to keep them moist while baking.
Finally, sprinkle a generous layer of grated cheese over the meatballs and bake them in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the meatballs are fully cooked.
Storing Suggestion
To store leftovers, let the Meatball Bake cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Cooking Tips
If you’re looking to lighten the recipe, try using lean ground turkey instead of a mix with beef. You can also substitute the breadcrumbs with oats or crushed crackers for a different texture. Enhance the flavor with herbs like oregano or basil for a fresh touch!
Serving Suggestions
Pair the Meatball Bake with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it over spaghetti for a classic Italian twist. A glass of red wine would also complement the flavors beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of Parmesan cheese, you can skip it or switch it with any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed tortilla chips or a gluten-free alternative can work just as well without changing the integrity of the dish.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, you might try adding fresh zucchini or bell peppers to the meatball mix for added flavor and nutrition. In the fall, consider using pumpkin puree in place of some of the meat for a seasonal twist that adds moisture and a hint of sweetness.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (in breadcrumbs) and dairy (in cheese). For gluten-free options, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, and for dairy-free, use plant-based cheese for topping.
FAQ
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, cut one open to ensure there’s no pink in the center.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time, store them in the fridge for up to a day, or freeze them. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve them.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
You can use any cheese you like! Cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone all melt beautifully. If you’re a fan of strong flavors, go for a blue cheese or gouda.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils, quinoa, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. You can also add veggies like mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
Can I use other types of meat?
Certainly! You can mix and match with different ground meats like chicken or pork. Each will give the dish a unique flavor, but make sure to adjust the cooking times as necessary.
How should I store leftovers?
After letting the Meatball Bake cool, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also portion it out and freeze individual servings for later use.
Meatball Bake
Ingredients
- 500 g ground beef (1 lb)
- 250 g ground turkey (8 oz)
- 1 grated onion
- ⅔ cup breadcrumbs (67 g)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 700 g passata (1 jar)
- 1.5 cups chicken broth (360 ml)
- 1 tsp white sugar (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese or mozzarella (113 g)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground turkey, grated onion, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Using a tablespoon, portion out the mixture and roll into meatballs.
- In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Next, pour in the passata and chicken broth. Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper, then let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully place the meatballs into the sauce, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Using a spoon, drizzle some sauce over each meatball to keep them moist while baking.
- Top with a generous amount of grated cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the meatballs are cooked through.
- Enjoy your meal with your favorite sides!
