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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the charming appeal of meatballs. Baked Neapolitan Cake Meatballs, however, take traditional meatballs to a whole new level of deliciousness. This innovative recipe marries the classic Italian flavors of meatballs with the rich, vibrant essence of Neapolitan cuisine, creating a dish that is not only satisfying but also visually stunning. The combination of savory meat, luscious sauce, and melted cheese ensures that each bite is a delightful experience, making these meatballs perfect for weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or even casual get-togethers.

Baked Neapolitan Cake Meatballs

Discover the delightful world of Baked Neapolitan Cake Meatballs, an innovative twist on a classic comfort food. Combining savory ground beef with aromatic herbs, rich Neapolitan sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, this recipe promises a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these versatile meatballs can be enjoyed with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as party appetizers. Elevate your culinary experience with this satisfying dish!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef

1 cup finely chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

1 large egg, beaten

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Neapolitan Sauce:

1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 cup marinara sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the meatballs.

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until they are uniformly blended.

      Form the Meatballs: With slightly moistened hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into 1.5-inch meatballs. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they develop a golden-brown exterior and are cooked through. You can check for doneness by slicing one open; it should no longer be pink inside.

          Make the Neapolitan Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, sugar, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Season with salt and pepper, then stir the mixture to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

            Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are finished baking, carefully transfer them into the simmering sauce. Gently stir to coat them with the sauce and let them simmer together for an additional 5-10 minutes to enhance the flavors.

              Add the Cheese: As the meatballs and sauce simmer, preheat your broiler. Transfer the meatballs and sauce into a suitable baking dish, then generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Place the dish under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

                Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added burst of freshness. Serve these delightful meatballs with your choice of pasta, alongside warm crusty bread, or enjoy them straight from the dish.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                    Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the meatballs in individual bowls, drizzled with extra sauce and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and additional basil leaves. Pair with a side salad for a complete meal!