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Easy Baked Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

Easy Baked Meatballs with Marinara Sauce


  • Author: OliviaBennett
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Description

These meatballs were born in a tiny Brooklyn kitchen with nothing but a pound of ground beef and big dreams. Now, they’re a go-to comfort food—quick, juicy, and full of garlicky goodness. Whether it’s a chaotic Tuesday or cozy Sunday, these oven-baked beauties with rich marinara hit the spot every time. Minimal fuss, maximum flavor. No nonna required.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (or GF alternative)

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan

  • 1 egg

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.

  • Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl using your hands. Don’t overmix!

  • Roll into 1½-inch balls. Use damp hands for easy shaping.

  • Bake meatballs for 18–20 mins, until golden and cooked through.

  • Simmer marinara in a skillet. Add baked meatballs and cook together for 10 mins until sauce thickens.

Notes

  • Add fennel seeds or chili flakes to the mix for a flavor twist.

  • Freeze extras raw or cooked—they reheat beautifully.

  • Serve over pasta, zoodles, or in crusty sub rolls!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 380 per serving, serves 4
  • Fat: 26g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 27g