Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible Meatball Marinara Poppers! Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, these bite-sized delights are smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella cheese. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving a savory snack, these poppers are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more. Dive into this simple yet delectable recipe that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Gently form small, compact meatballs about 1-inch in diameter. Ensure they are tightly packed to prevent crumbling during cooking.
- Place the meatballs into the prepared mini muffin tin, pressing them slightly to create a stable base.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and carefully drain any excess grease.
- Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring each is generously coated.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauced meatballs.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves before serving.
- Serve warm as a delicious appetizer, using toothpicks for easy handling.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality ground beef and fresh Parmesan cheese. This will make a noticeable difference in the taste of your meatballs.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Use a Mini Muffin Tin: This helps the meatballs maintain their shape while baking and makes for a perfect popper size. If you don’t have one, a baking sheet works fine too—just make sure to space them out.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize Your Marinara: Feel free to spice up your marinara sauce with herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Serve with Style: Use toothpicks for easy serving, and consider pairing with a side of extra marinara for dipping. Fresh basil not only adds flavor but also a beautiful garnish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg