Ingredients
For the Meatballs
1.5 kg ground beef (or half beef and half Italian sausage for extra richness)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup milk
For the Baking
3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (extra for garnish)
A handful of fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Preparation
- Make the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and milk.
Gently mix the ingredients with your hands—just enough to combine without overcrowding. 2. Form the meatballs
Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake the meatballs
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Bake the meatballs for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly browned and almost cooked through.
- Prepare the baked cheese platter
Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Place the baked meatballs in the sauce.
Drop a little more sauce over them, then top with mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Finish baking
Return the dish to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden brown in some areas, and bubbles begin to appear around the edges.
- Serve
Let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley.
Serve it with garlic bread, pasta, or mashed potatoes, or enjoy it straight from the plate.
If you like, I can also make:
A side dish with garlic bread
A side dish with pasta
A richer, cheesier version