Craving a comforting, no-fuss meal? This frozen meatball recipe has you covered with tender, saucy meatballs topped with melty mozzarella, all prepped in just minutes! Whether you’re short on time or looking to whip up a tasty family meal, this recipe for frozen meatballs delivers a quick, delicious solution that doesn’t skimp on flavor. From busy weeknights to gatherings, frozen meatball recipes like this one offer a tasty and reliable choice with easy prep and hearty ingredients.
Frozen Meatball Recipe
Difficulty: Easy4
servings5
minutes20
minutes280
kcalThis frozen meatball recipe is a quick and flavorful solution for weeknight dinners, with savory sauce and tender meatballs ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
1 lb frozen meatballs (about 16-20 meatballs)
1 ½ cups marinara sauce (or any preferred pasta sauce)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Directions
- Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauce the Meatballs: In a baking dish, spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly. Add the frozen meatballs in a single layer over the sauce.
- Top with Sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs, making sure each one is coated.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- This recipe can also be made on the stovetop by simmering the meatballs in a skillet with sauce for about 15-20 minutes.
- Use meatballs made from beef, chicken, turkey, or even plant-based options.
Tips for a Delicious Frozen Meatball Recipe
- Choosing the Best Sauce: While marinara is a classic, you can try alfredo or spicy arrabbiata sauce for unique flavors.
- Even Cooking: Spread meatballs evenly in the baking dish to ensure uniform heat and cooking.
- Frozen to Fresh: No need to thaw the meatballs – cooking directly from frozen saves time and maintains texture.
- Cheese Variety: For extra flavor, add Parmesan along with mozzarella for a rich, cheesy topping.
- Make it Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and dried oregano for a more authentic Italian flavor to this frozen meatball recipe.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs with sauce for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve these meatballs as a main dish with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They also make great appetizers when served with toothpicks and extra marinara on the side for dipping. For a fun twist, add them to sub rolls with melted cheese for a hearty meatball sandwich!
Recipe Variants
- Frozen Meatball Recipe Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning, garlic, and top with Parmesan for an authentic twist.
- Frozen Meatball Alfredo: Use alfredo sauce and top with parsley and black pepper for a creamy alternative.
- Frozen BBQ Meatballs: Toss with BBQ sauce and bake, then garnish with scallions.
- Frozen Meatball Sub: Use baked meatballs in a sub roll with extra sauce and melted provolone for a satisfying sandwich.
- Frozen Meatball Pasta Bake: Combine meatballs with pasta and sauce, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Frozen Meatball Recipe
Yes, just simmer them in sauce for 15-20 minutes until fully heated.
No, this recipe is designed to cook them directly from frozen, saving time and effort.
Alfredo, BBQ, or any pasta sauce can be used to change the flavor profile.
Absolutely! Try provolone, Parmesan, or even pepper jack for added flavor.
This easy frozen meatball recipe is a game-changer for quick, satisfying meals. By blending frozen meatballs with a tasty sauce and rich cheese, you get a comforting dish in record time. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with sides, frozen meatball recipes like this bring family favorites to the table in no time!
Leave a Reply