Smothered Meatballs
Smothered meatballs are a comfort food favorite that can bring warmth to any family meal. These tasty bites are loaded with flavor, thanks to a combination of ground beef, spices, and a rich marinara sauce topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Pair them with pasta, rice, or simply enjoy them on their own for a hearty dish that everyone loves.
Why Make This Recipe
Making smothered meatballs is not only easy, but it also makes for a great way to feed a crowd. The ingredients are simple, and the cooking process is straightforward. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, these meatballs will surely impress. Plus, they are customizable – you can change up the seasonings or sauces to suit your taste.
How to Make Smothered Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 15 minutes or until cooked through.
- In a skillet, heat marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the baked meatballs.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and cover until melted, about 4-5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Smothered Meatballs
Serve smothered meatballs hot out of the skillet or oven. They are perfect over a bed of pasta, rice, or served on a hoagie roll for a meatball sub. Add a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Smothered Meatballs
Cool any leftover smothered meatballs and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Place the cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Smothered Meatballs
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
- If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture. Mix just until combined for tender meatballs.
Variation
You can switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Additionally, you can use different types of cheese or sauce, like Alfredo or pesto, for a unique twist on this classic dish.
FAQs
1. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes! Baking is a healthier option, and it still gives you delicious meatballs.
2. How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?
Meatballs are cooked through when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
3. Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Yes, you can use store-bought meatballs and just follow the steps for smothering them in sauce and cheese.
