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Cast Iron Cheesy Baked Meatballs Slider Recipe

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4.3 from 12 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

These cheesy baked meatballs are cooked in a single cast iron skillet, making a delicious and easy one-pan meal. Ground beef meatballs are seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, browned on the stovetop, then baked in marinara sauce with ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses melted on top. Finished under the broiler for a bubbly, golden cheese crust, this recipe delivers comforting Italian flavors with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1.34 pounds ground beef, 85% lean
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 whole egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, minced (about 56 grams)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup pork rind panko (20 grams)
  • 2 ounces parmesan cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for browning the meatballs

Sauce and Cheese Topping

  • 28 ounces marinara sauce
  • 8 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 ounces parmesan cheese, shredded

Garnish

  • Basil ribbons
  • Extra parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, half of the shredded parmesan cheese, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, black pepper, optional red pepper flakes, pork rind panko, heavy whipping cream, minced garlic, minced onion, and egg. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Shape the mixture into approximately 12 equal-sized meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet ready for browning.
  2. Brown the meatballs: Heat a cast iron skillet (at least 10 inches) over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Carefully add the meatballs, not overcrowding the pan, and brown them on all sides over medium-high heat. The meatballs do not need to be fully cooked through in this step. Brown in batches as needed. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Assemble and bake: Once all meatballs are browned, stir the marinara sauce into the skillet around and between the meatballs. Dollop the ricotta cheese evenly between the meatballs. Cover the entire dish with shredded mozzarella and the remaining parmesan cheese. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the cheeses have melted and are bubbling.
  4. Broil for finishing touch: After baking, switch your oven to the broil setting on high. Broil the meatballs and cheese for 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese on top turns golden brown and bubbly. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil ribbons and extra parmesan cheese before serving.
  5. Storage: Allow leftovers to cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Use a cast iron skillet of at least 10 inches diameter to ensure even cooking and adequate space for browning the meatballs.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when browning to get a good sear on the meatballs.
  • Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; adjust according to your preference.
  • Broiling at the end gives the cheese a beautiful golden crust—watch carefully to avoid burning.
  • This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/cast-iron-cheesy-baked-meatballs-slider-recipe/