Cheesy Baked Meatballs in Spicy Tomato Sauce Recipe

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 1 hr
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 200  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Description

Tender, juicy beef meatballs baked to perfection and smothered in a rich, spicy tomato sauce, then topped with gooey melted cheese. This hearty, flavorful dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, bringing together comfort food with a little kick.

Ingredients
    For the Meatballs
  • 500 g ground beef (lean, halal-certified)
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
  • 0.25 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
    • For the Spicy Tomato Sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion (finely diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 fresh red chili (finely chopped, optional for extra heat)
  • 1 can (400 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 cup water or low-sodium beef stock
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
    • For the Cheesy Topping
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
  • 0.25 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
Instructions
    Prepare the Meatballs
  1. 1
    In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with clean hands until well combined—avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender. Roll into 16–18 evenly sized balls.
    2. Sear the Meatballs
  2. 2
    Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet). Transfer to a plate and set aside.
    3. Make the Spicy Tomato Sauce
  3. 3
    In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and fresh chili, cooking for another minute. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then pour in water or beef stock. Let simmer for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in fresh basil.
    4. Combine and Bake
  4. 4
    Preheat oven to 200°C. Place seared meatballs into the skillet with the sauce, coating them well. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly on top. Transfer to the oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and cheese is bubbling and golden.
    5. Rest and Serve
  5. 5
    Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread, pasta, or rice.
Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C for 15 minutes or microwave in short bursts.

Variations:

  • Use chicken or turkey mince for a lighter option.
  • Swap chili powder for cayenne if you want sharper heat.
  • Add roasted bell peppers or olives for extra flavor depth.
Keywords: cheesy meatballs, spicy tomato sauce, baked beef recipe, comfort food dinner, easy oven meal
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/cheesy-baked-meatballs-in-spicy-tomato-sauce-recipe/