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This baked meatball recipe is all about simplicity and comfort. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a fuss-free dish for guests, this approach lets the flavors shine with minimal effort. Using frozen cooked meatballs and a good marinara sauce means you can have a hot, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour without the mess of making meatballs from scratch.
I first made this on a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how comforting and easy it was. Now it’s a go-to for busy days when I want something hearty without the time investment.
Ingredients
- 24 ounces frozen cooked meatballs: Choose a brand with quality meats for better flavor and texture
- One 24 ounce jar marinara sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade if you have it for the best taste
- Two cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded melts better and gives a gooey topping
Instructions
- Sear the scene:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and arrange the oven rack in the middle position to ensure even baking
- Prepare the pan:
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish using a cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking
- Arrange the meatballs:
- Place the frozen cooked meatballs in a single even layer to help them heat through uniformly
- Initial baking:
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes allowing them to warm and start releasing some flavor
- Add sauce:
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and stir gently until each is coated with sauce, then spread it out evenly
- Cheese topping:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously over the sauced meatballs
- Final bake:
- Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until everything is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted
- Optional broil:
- Optionally, switch to broil mode for a few minutes to brown the cheese for a lovely golden crust and extra flavor
- Check doneness:
- Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit for safe eating
My favorite part is how simple it is to transform frozen basics into a comforting oven-baked dinner. One family night sticks out where my kids fought over who got the last cheesy meatball and asked when we could have it again.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the cheese from becoming rubbery. This recipe also freezes well in single or family-sized portions wrapped tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter protein option. Swap mozzarella for provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses like fontina and parmesan for a more complex flavor. Use marinara with herbs or spicy arrabbiata to tailor the sauce to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or over spaghetti for a classic pairing. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables balance the richness of the cheese and meat. For a fun twist, turn leftovers into meatball subs using toasted rolls and extra sauce.
This recipe delivers comforting, cheesy baked meatballs with minimal effort perfect for any night. Enjoy the simple process and hearty results every time.
FAQs about Recipes
- → Can I use thawed meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, if using thawed meatballs, you can skip the first baking step and proceed directly to combining them with the sauce and cheese.
- → What type of cheese works best for topping?
Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, providing a creamy and mild topping that complements the marinara and meatballs.
- → Is it necessary to broil the dish at the end?
Broiling is optional but gives the cheese a golden, slightly crisp finish that adds texture and visual appeal.
- → How do I know when the meatballs are fully heated through?
The meatballs should register 160°F in the center when measured with a food thermometer to ensure they are hot and safe to eat.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the meatballs with sauce and cheese ahead and bake when ready, adjusting the baking time accordingly.