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Marinara Meatballs with Melty Mozzarella Recipe


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4.2 from 45 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Description

These Marinara Meatballs are a quick and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties or family gatherings. Baked meatballs are topped with savory marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, then finished under the broiler for a bubbly, golden top. Garnished with fresh parsley and served with toothpicks, they make flavorful bite-sized treats that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 32 oz frozen meatballs

Sauce and Toppings

  • 1 cup marinara sauce (Bertolli brand recommended)
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
  2. Bake the meatballs: Place the frozen meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or according to the package directions until heated through.
  3. Chop parsley: While the meatballs are baking, finely chop the fresh parsley for garnish.
  4. Switch oven to broil: Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and switch the oven setting to broil to prepare for melting the cheese.
  5. Add sauce and cheese: Spoon a little marinara sauce over each meatball, then generously top with freshly shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Broil until bubbly: Place the meatballs back under the broiler for about 2 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
  7. Garnish and serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven, sprinkle with the chopped parsley, and insert a toothpick into each to make them easy to handle and serve.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded mozzarella cheese for the best melting results.
  • Watch the meatballs closely while broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
  • To make the appetizer easier to serve, insert toothpicks after cooking.
  • Great for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers.
  • Can be served with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian