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Cheesy Oven-Baked Meatballs

These one-pot Cheesy Baked Meatballs are an ideal option for serving a large group. Comforting, rich in flavor, and adaptable to gluten-free needs, this dish also lends itself well to freezer storage for future meals.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients
  

For the meatballs:

  • 6 tbsp grated parmesan
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 tbsp freshly grated breadcrumbs gluten-free if preferred
  • 8 pork sausages skins removed (ensure gluten-free if necessary)
  • 800 g 28 oz ground beef
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 large onion finely chopped

For the sauce:

  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 100 g 1 cup minus 1 tbsp grated/shredded mozzarella
  • 400 g 14 oz chopped tomatoes, canned
  • 100 g 1 cup minus 1 tbsp grated/shredded strong cheddar
  • 4 tbsp tomato puree paste
  • 2 tsp light brown sugar
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) with fan assistance. In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sausage meat, onion, egg, parmesan, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and a seasoning of salt and pepper. Thoroughly blend by hand and shape into meatballs roughly the size of walnuts; aim for 40–45 pieces.
  • Distribute the formed meatballs across two to three large ovenproof dishes, ensuring they remain slightly apart. Brush each meatball with olive oil and place in the oven for 10 minutes.
  • Remove the dishes and gently shift the meatballs to one side. Into the cleared portion, divide the garlic, chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, thyme, oregano, and brown sugar between the dishes and stir to combine. Redistribute the meatballs evenly within the sauce.
  • Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar across the top and return the dishes to the oven. Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese has turned golden.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

To scale down, this recipe can be halved or quartered with ease. For freezer preparation, complete the process through initial baking, then cool, add sauce and cheese, and freeze. When ready to serve, thaw fully and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes at 190°C (375°F).