Cheesy Baked Beef Meatballs

Introduction

These Cheesy Baked Beef Meatballs are the kind of comfort food that brings warmth to any table. Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, they’re coated with melted cheese and baked to golden perfection. This recipe delivers meatballs that stay moist on the inside and slightly caramelized on the outside, with colorful bits of bell pepper, parsley, and seasoning throughout.
Perfect for family dinners, parties, meal prep, or even as a snack, these meatballs are hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. Serve them with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or enjoy them just as they are straight from the pan — they’re delicious any way you choose.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 2 lbs ground beef (85–90% lean)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced

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• ½ small green bell pepper, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for firmer texture)

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley

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• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

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• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican blend)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, red and green bell peppers, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, and shredded cheese.

2. Add the egg and all seasonings: smoked paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili flakes if using.

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3. Mix everything together using clean hands or a spatula until well combined.

4. Do not over-mix — this keeps the meatballs tender.

2. Shape the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Roll the meat mixture into evenly sized balls, about the size of a golf ball.

3. Place them in a baking tray, spacing them slightly apart.

3. Bake the Meatballs

1. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are almost cooked through.

2. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese generously over the top of each meatball.

3. Return to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes beautifully golden.

4. Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley.

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• Serve hot with pasta, mashed potatoes, garlic bread, rice, or enjoy them as a standalone appetizer.

Tips for Best Results

• If you prefer softer, juicier meatballs, skip the breadcrumbs.

• For firmer, more structured meatballs, add ½–¾ cup breadcrumbs.

• Add a splash of milk if your mixture feels too dry.

• You can replace beef with turkey, chicken, or a mix of meats.

• For extra flavor, drizzle marinara sauce or spicy BBQ sauce on top before serving.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warm.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Baked Beef Meatballs are a delicious, comforting dish that you’ll find yourself making again and again. Packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion, they offer everything you love in a hearty homemade meal. Whether served as the centerpiece of dinner or as an appetizer for guests, these meatballs always deliver incredible taste and satisfying texture. Enjoy every bite!