Cheesy Meatball Skillet is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, offering a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The combination of savory meatballs, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese creates an irresistible dish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh salad. It’s the kind of meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. The meatballs do not need to be fully cooked at this stage as they will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Simmer in Marinara Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, until fully cooked through.
- Add the Cheese: Preheat your oven to broil. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatballs and sauce. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden brown top.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Enjoy this Cheesy Meatball Skillet as a comforting, cheesy, and delicious dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
