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Unsalted butter is a key ingredient in our garlic butter spread for the bread. It provides the perfect creamy base that enhances the flavor of the garlic, allowing it to shine through without being overpowered by salt. Using unsalted butter also allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, ensuring that every component harmonizes beautifully.

Cheesy Garlic Bread Meatball Bake

Experience comfort food like never before with this Cheesy Garlic Bread Meatball Bake. The delightful aroma of garlic and melted cheese fills your kitchen, bringing warmth and nostalgia. This dish combines tender meatballs infused with Italian herbs, rich marinara sauce, and buttery garlic bread, all baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners, impressing guests, or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe promises satisfaction that lingers long after the last bite. Dive into a culinary journey that’s simple yet immensely rewarding!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef or turkey

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

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

    Prepare Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.

      Brown Meatballs: In a skillet over medium heat, lightly brown the meatballs in a bit of olive oil until golden on the outside (about 5-7 minutes). They will finish cooking in the oven. Transfer browned meatballs to a baking dish.

        Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the browned meatballs in the baking dish, ensuring they are submerged. Set aside.

          Prepare Garlic Bread: Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread.

            Assemble the Bake: Top the meatballs and sauce with shredded mozzarella cheese. Place the garlic bread halves alongside the meatball bake in the same baking dish for a perfect melt and toast.

              Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the bread is crisped to your liking.

                Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the cheese. Serve hot, using the cheesy garlic bread to scoop up the meatballs and sauce.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 50 mins | Serves 4-6