Best Cheesy Meatball Bake
A comforting and delicious bake made with tender meatballs, tangy feta, and gooey mozzarella, layered in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for any occasion.
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a cheesy meatball bake that brings everyone to the dinner table. This Doubly Cheesy Meatball Bake is a delightful combination of tender meatballs, tangy feta, and gooey mozzarella, all layered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish promises to please even the pickiest eaters. If you’re a fan of flavorful bakes that are easy to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. You may also find Cheesy Baked Cabbage Steaks useful.
What Makes This Recipe Special
One of the standout features of this dish is its versatility. You can whip it up on a busy weekday or serve it at a celebratory gathering. The combination of ground lamb or beef creates a rich flavor profile, while the feta cheese adds a unique twist. Plus, this recipe is budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank. You may also find Cheesy Chicken Crescent Roll Bake useful.
When you’re looking for a simple recipe that can be made quickly but still feels indulgent, this is it.
How to Make Doubly Cheesy Meatball Bake
The process of making this bake is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by soaking crustless white bread, which adds a lovely texture to the meatballs. Then, these meatballs will be fried until golden before simmering in a savory tomato sauce, topped generously with mozzarella cheese. The final touch is a quick bake in the oven that melts the cheese to perfection.
Ingredients
Gathering the ingredients for this tasty meatball bake is simple. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups packed torn crustless stale white bread
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh mint, plus more for garnish
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 lb. ground lamb or beef chuck (80 percent lean)
- 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup lower-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 2 Tbsp. fresh oregano leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
You can easily swap in ingredients based on your preferences. For instance, if you want to lighten things up, using ground turkey or chicken can provide a leaner option.
Directions to Follow
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. In a large bowl, soak the torn bread in cold water for about 20 minutes. Afterward, squeeze out and discard any excess water from the bread.
To the bowl with the soaked bread, add feta, chopped mint, garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Toss everything to combine. Gently mix in the ground lamb until just combined; then form the mixture into twelve 2-inch meatballs.
Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs, cooking them for about 10 minutes while turning to brown them on two sides. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a large plate.
Carefully pour off any excess fat from the skillet, leaving a thin coating. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the onion. Cook for around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, add the crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, bay leaves, and an additional 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine, heat to a boil on high, and then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 15 minutes or until slightly reduced, stirring often.
Return the meatballs to the skillet, and top them with shredded mozzarella cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Finally, switch your oven to broil on high and broil for 3 minutes or until the cheese has browned beautifully. Garnish the dish with more mint before serving.
Doubly Cheesy Meatball Bake
- Prep
- 20 MIN
- Cook
- 45 MIN
- Total
- 1 HR 5 MIN
- Serves
- 6
01Ingredients
For the meatballs
For the sauce
02Method
- Preparation
- Cooking
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0 OF 11 DONE03Recipe notes
- 01Pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to three months.
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How to Serve Your Meatball Bake
This Doubly Cheesy Meatball Bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. Cut through the cheesy goodness and serve with a sprig of mint on each plate for a burst of color and flavor. For those looking to bulk up the meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or even a hearty grain like quinoa or couscous.
How to Store & Freeze Leftovers
You can keep leftovers of this meatball bake stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing the baked dish. Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best results.
Variations
There are countless ways to customize this meatball bake. You could switch up the cheese, use a different type of ground meat, or even add vegetables like spinach to the tomato sauce for extra nutrition. Another fun option is to incorporate different spices, such as cumin or coriander, for a unique flavor profile that can transport your taste buds.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
Yes, you can use fresh bread, but you’ll want to toast it lightly to achieve the right texture.
What can I substitute for the feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or ricotta can work as tasty alternatives.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then bake when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Doubly Cheesy Meatball Bake is a delightful dish that combines flavor and comfort, perfect for any occasion. For more ideas, check out Best Doubly Cheesy Meatball Bake Recipe – Good Housekeeping and my Cheesy Meatball Subs. Enjoy your cooking!
Breakfast
Casseroles
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