If you’re craving a taste of Italy, these Ultimate Cheesy Italian Oven-Baked Meatballs are sure to hit the spot. Packed with rich flavors and gooey cheese, they’re a delightful twist on a classic dish. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, these meatballs are easy to prepare and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Get ready to enjoy a comforting meal that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen.
Steps
- Combine the bread crumbs, Romano cheese, fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Add water and eggs to the mixture, then incorporate the ground beef until thoroughly combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and browned, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F.
Ingredients
- Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
- Romano cheese (or substitute with Parmesan)
- Fresh parsley
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Whole eggs
- Ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey)
FAQ
- What ingredients are essential for making baked meatballs?
- To make baked meatballs, you will need Italian-seasoned bread crumbs, Romano or Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, eggs, and ground beef or turkey.
- What is the process for baking meatballs in the oven?
- Start by mixing the bread crumbs, cheese, parsley, and seasonings. Stir in water and eggs, then add the ground meat. Shape the mixture into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F until they are cooked through and browned, usually about 30 minutes.
- How should baked meatballs be stored?
- Store any leftover baked meatballs in a shallow, airtight container in the fridge for up to four days to keep them fresh.
- Is it possible to freeze baked meatballs, and how?
- Yes, you can freeze baked meatballs. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet for several hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. You can also freeze them uncooked and cook them straight from the freezer when needed.
- How flexible is this baked meatball recipe in terms of seasonings?
- The recipe is quite adaptable, allowing you to adjust the seasonings based on what you have on hand or your personal preference. This makes it easy to customize the flavor to your liking.
Tips
- Choose Your Cheese Wisely: While the recipe suggests Romano cheese, Parmesan can be a great substitute if that’s what you have available. Both cheeses will add a rich, savory flavor to your meatballs.
- Seasoning Flexibility: If you don’t have Italian-seasoned bread crumbs, create your own blend using plain bread crumbs and spices from your pantry. This allows you to customize the flavor to your preference.
- Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your meatballs are fully cooked. They should reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F for safety and best texture.
- Freezing Options: For convenience, consider freezing meatballs either before or after baking. Cooked meatballs can be flash-frozen and stored, making them easy to reheat later. Uncooked meatballs can be frozen and cooked directly from the freezer as needed.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet – A high-quality, non-stick baking sheet for placing the meatballs in the oven.
- Instant-Read Thermometer – To ensure the meatballs are cooked to the correct temperature (at least 165 degrees F).
- Mixing Bowls – A set of large mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
- Airtight Containers – For storing leftover meatballs in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Freezer-Safe Containers – For freezing meatballs to keep them fresh for an extended period.
