If you’re looking for a hearty comfort food recipe that feels homemade but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, these cheesy oven-baked meatballs are exactly what you need. Juicy, tender, and stuffed with melty mozzarella, they deliver a rich burst of flavor in every bite. Whether served over pasta, tucked into a toasted sub roll, or enjoyed as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these baked meatballs disappear fast.
Unlike fried versions, oven-baked meatballs are easier to prepare and require less hands-on cooking. Baking at high heat creates a golden exterior while locking in moisture, ensuring perfectly juicy meatballs every time. The surprise inside? A gooey mozzarella center that melts beautifully while baking, giving you that irresistible cheese pull.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Baked Meatballs?
- Super Cheesy: Mozzarella inside and on top for double the flavor
- Easy Oven Method: No frying, less mess, simple prep
- Perfectly Juicy: Milk-soaked breadcrumbs keep them tender
- Great for Meal Prep: Store and reheat easily
- Family-Friendly Recipe: A guaranteed hit for kids and adults
These meatballs are also excellent for meal prep dinners. Make a large batch and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days, or freeze for quick weeknight meals. They reheat beautifully without drying out.
Ingredients for Cheesy Oven-Baked Meatballs
For the Meatballs:
- Ground beef (fresh for best texture and flavor)
- Breadcrumbs (binds and adds structure)
- Milk (softens breadcrumbs for tenderness)
- Egg (essential binder)
- Worcestershire sauce (adds savory depth)
- Finely minced onion and garlic
- Fresh parsley
- Dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper
- Mozzarella cubes (for stuffing)
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- Butter
- Fresh garlic (smashed or minced)
- Flour (for roux)
- Chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Ground nutmeg (enhances cream sauces)
- Salt and pepper
- Shredded mozzarella (for topping)
How to Make Cheesy Oven-Baked Meatballs?
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Soak Breadcrumbs
Combine milk and breadcrumbs in a small bowl. Let sit until fully softened. This step ensures extra tender meatballs.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, whisk egg, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Add Beef and Aromatics
Add ground beef, minced onion, garlic, and soaked breadcrumbs. Mix gently with hands until just combined (avoid overmixing to keep meatballs soft).
Step 5: Stuff with Mozzarella
Take a portion of the mixture and flatten slightly. Place a small mozzarella cube in the center, seal, and roll into a 1-inch ball. Arrange in baking dish.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 10 minutes. Flip meatballs and bake another 10 minutes until lightly browned.
Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
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Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
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Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
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Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
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Slowly add chicken broth while whisking continuously.
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Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
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Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
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Simmer until thickened, about 2–3 more minutes. Remove garlic if desired.
Final Bake
Drain excess grease from meatballs. Pour sauce evenly over them and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
Return to oven and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Ideas
These cheesy meatballs are incredibly versatile:
- Over spaghetti or fettuccine
- In a meatball sub sandwich
- As a party appetizer with toothpicks
- With mashed potatoes or garlic bread
- Alongside roasted vegetables
Storage & Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator:
Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.
Freezer:
Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Store up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Variations and Substitutions
- Cheese Variations: Cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack
- Different Proteins: Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or beef-pork blend
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños
- Italian Twist: Add fresh basil or Italian seasoning
Final Thoughts
These cheesy oven-baked meatballs with creamy garlic Parmesan sauce bring together everything you love about comfort food—juicy beef, gooey melted cheese, and rich, velvety sauce. They’re simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for gatherings.
One bite of the crispy exterior and molten mozzarella center, and this easy baked meatball recipe will become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Try them tonight and enjoy homemade comfort food at its finest.
