Baked Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Baked Meatballs in Marinara Sauce are a cozy, flavorful, and effortless dinner idea that everyone will love. Juicy, tender meatballs baked to perfection and simmered in a rich homemade or store-bought marinara sauce make a comforting meal for any night of the week. This recipe is simple to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings, and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or warm bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Meatballs stay juicy without frying, saving time and mess
• Oven-baked method ensures even cooking and golden perfection
• Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or freezing for later
• Easily customizable with your favorite herbs or spices
• Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, bread, or a fresh salad

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely minced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

For the Marinara Sauce

• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil to help them brown.
5. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden on the outside.
6. While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
7. Pour in the marinara sauce, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
8. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer gently for 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
9. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use a cookie scoop to ensure all meatballs are evenly sized.
• Swap half of the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• For a cheesy twist, insert a small cube of mozzarella into each meatball before baking.
• Simmer longer for a richer, more flavorful sauce.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Place meatballs on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze sauce separately or combined with meatballs.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve over spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta.
• Spoon over mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a hearty meal.
• Add a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.
• Top with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the meatballs a day ahead, bake them, and store them in the fridge. Add to sauce and reheat before serving for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well. Keep in mind they are leaner, so avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.

Can I freeze baked meatballs in sauce?

Yes, freeze them individually or in sauce. Thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat before serving.

How can I make the sauce richer?

Simmer the marinara sauce for 15–20 minutes with a pinch of sugar, garlic, or a splash of balsamic vinegar to enhance depth and flavor.

Ready to Make It?

These Baked Meatballs in Marinara Sauce are simple, comforting, and perfect for any family dinner. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with bread, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and nostalgia to the table. Pin it for later or make it tonight for an effortless and delicious meal.

You Might Also Like

• Creamy Garlic Chicken – Tender chicken in a luscious garlic sauce.
• Cheesy Ranch Potatoes – Comforting, cheesy potatoes baked to perfection.
• Hobo Casserole Ground Beef – Hearty, flavorful baked casserole.
• Easy Chicken Lo Mein – Quick, flavorful noodle dish perfect for weeknights.

Print