Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and irresistibly delicious, the Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. These tiny, tender meatballs baked to perfection and basking in rich, flavorful marinara sauce offer a perfect balance of savory meat and zesty tomato goodness. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a cozy family meal, this recipe brings simple ingredients together into a dish that everyone will adore. Trust me, once you try these mini meatballs, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you — each one plays a big role in crafting the perfect flavor, texture, and aroma that make this Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe so irresistible. From the savory ground meat that delivers richness to the Parmesan cheese that adds depth and saltiness, every component is essential.
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken): The star protein that gives the meatballs their juicy, tender texture and meaty flavor.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative): These bind the meat and keep the meatballs light and fluffy rather than dense.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty bite and enhances the overall savoriness.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the meatball mixture together perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that unmistakable aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with the meat.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the meatballs a warm, herbaceous flair.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the meat mixture.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds just a hint of heat and complexity.
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought): The tangy, tomatoey companion that dresses these mini meatballs with bold flavor.
- Extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish: These finishing touches elevate the dish visually and tastefully.
How to Make Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your meatballs bake evenly without sticking and get that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the meatball mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so keep it light and careful.
Step 3: Form the meatballs
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, making about 24 mini meatballs. Placing them evenly on the prepared baking sheet ensures they cook uniformly and each one has delightful bite-sized appeal.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs
Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done once the meatballs turn a golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This step guarantees juicy, fully cooked meatballs without drying them out.
Step 5: Serve with marinara sauce
While the meatballs bake, gently warm your marinara sauce in a pan. Once the meatballs come out of the oven, either pour the sauce over them or serve it as a dip on the side. Top generously with extra Parmesan and fresh basil to add a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma.
How to Serve Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and a dusting of Parmesan cheese is a simple way to brighten the dish. The fresh green basil adds a pop of color and a delicate herbal note, while extra Parmesan brings a lovely salty finish that complements the meatballs’ rich flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread for dipping, a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance richness, or even some cooked spaghetti to turn it into a classic Italian-inspired meal. The mildness of these sides lets those mini meatballs truly shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the box? Serve these mini meatballs on toothpicks as fun party appetizers or pile them on slider buns with a dollop of marinara and melted cheese for tasty mini sandwiches. You can also turn them into a hearty meatball sub or simply scoop them over creamy polenta for a cozy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover meatballs tightly in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this dish again without any fuss.
Freezing
If you want to save them for later, freeze the cooked and cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’re perfect for up to 3 months and make weeknight dinners a breeze.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated meatballs gently in a simmering marinara sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This method keeps them moist and full of flavor without drying out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey works just as well and provides a leaner option. Just be careful not to overbake to keep them juicy.
Is it okay to make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative, like almond flour or gluten-free panko. The meatballs will still hold together beautifully.
Can I make the marinara sauce from scratch?
Definitely! A simple homemade marinara with garlic, crushed tomatoes, herbs, and a pinch of sugar creates a fresh, vibrant sauce that pairs perfectly with the meatballs.
What is the best way to ensure meatballs don’t fall apart?
Using the right ratio of breadcrumbs and egg helps bind the mixture, plus avoiding overmixing keeps the texture light and prevents them from falling apart during baking.
Can I cook these meatballs on the stovetop instead of baking?
You can pan-fry them in a skillet over medium heat, but baking is easier and results in more evenly cooked meatballs with less mess.
Final Thoughts
This Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that brings people together effortlessly. It’s approachable, satisfying, and bursting with flavors that never disappoint. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, these meatballs are guaranteed to become a beloved favorite in your home. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to fall in love with this delicious, crowd-pleasing classic!
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Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a main dish. These bite-sized meatballs are baked to perfection and served with a savory marinara sauce, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Sauce & Garnish
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands, making sure they are uniform in size for even cooking. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: While the meatballs bake, warm the marinara sauce in a pan. Once the meatballs are done, either pour the warm marinara sauce over them or serve the sauce on the side as a dip. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or marinara sauce.
- Meatballs can be made ahead and frozen before baking; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Check meatballs for doneness with a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
