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Baked Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe

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4.2 from 4 reviews

Classic Italian Meatballs baked to perfection with a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage, flavored with Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and garlic, then simmered in a rich marinara sauce enhanced with butter. This comforting recipe results in tender, juicy meatballs that are perfect for serving over pasta or enjoying on their own.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: About 15 meatballs (serves 4)

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
  • ½ pound mild Italian sausage, casings removed
  • ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • ¼ cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, plus more for garnish
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Sauce

  • 1 (24- to 32-ounce) jar marinara sauce
  • 4 tablespoons (½ stick) salted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the center. Line a rimmed sheet pan with aluminum foil to prepare for baking the meatballs.
  2. Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, Italian breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined.
  3. Form the meatballs: Using wet hands to prevent sticking, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, about 2 tablespoons of mixture each. Arrange the approximately 15 meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared foil-lined sheet pan.
  4. Bake the meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned on the outside and cooked through internally.
  5. Prepare the sauce: While the meatballs are baking, combine the jarred marinara sauce and softened butter in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sauce is warmed through, about 5 minutes.
  6. Serve: Once the meatballs are done, divide them between serving bowls and spoon the warm marinara sauce over them. Garnish with extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

  • Wet your hands before forming the meatballs to prevent sticking.
  • Make sure to use a mix of ground beef and mild Italian sausage for the best flavor and texture.
  • Fresh parsley adds a vibrant, fresh touch; flat-leaf parsley is preferred over curly.
  • The baking method helps keep the meatballs juicy while allowing them to brown nicely.
  • Butter in the marinara sauce adds richness and depth of flavor.
  • Serve with spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic Italian meal.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/baked-italian-meatballs-in-marinara-sauce-recipe/