Oven-Baked Pork Meatballs with Marinara is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy pork meatballs and rich, savory marinara sauce. This recipe offers the perfect balance of seasonings and textures, with the meatballs baked to perfection rather than fried, resulting in a lighter yet equally satisfying meal. Ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or as a hearty appetizer, these meatballs are both versatile and easy to prepare.
What makes this recipe special is the combination of high-quality ground pork, fresh herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, which infuse the meatballs with rich flavor. Baking them in the oven ensures even cooking and a slightly caramelized exterior while keeping the interior moist. Simmering them in marinara sauce enhances the flavor and creates a comforting, classic dish that everyone loves.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s simple, fuss-free, and delivers restaurant-quality meatballs without deep frying. The pork stays tender and juicy, and the flavors of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan blend beautifully. Baking the meatballs instead of frying saves time, reduces mess, and makes them a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve these meatballs with pasta, as a meatball sub, or even as a protein-packed appetizer. They are rich, comforting, and satisfying, making them a perfect family-friendly dish.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This dish is a must-try because it elevates a classic comfort food with minimal effort. Oven-baking ensures perfectly cooked meatballs every time, and simmering them in marinara sauce enhances the flavor while keeping them moist. The combination of tender pork, fresh herbs, and savory marinara is irresistible, making this a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings (about 4–5 meatballs per serving)
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian / Comfort Food
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
1 lb (450 g) ground pork
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1–2 tablespoons milk (optional, for moisture)
For the Marinara Sauce
2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
For Garnish
Fresh basil or parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese
Cooking Directions Overview
- Preheat the oven and prepare a baking sheet.
- Mix meatball ingredients and form meatballs.
- Bake meatballs until golden brown.
- Prepare marinara sauce in a skillet or saucepan.
- Simmer baked meatballs in marinara sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with herbs and Parmesan.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, black pepper, and milk if using. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender. Form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake Meatballs
Bake meatballs in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Prepare Marinara Sauce
While meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 5: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce
Once meatballs are baked, add them to the simmering marinara sauce. Coat evenly and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot over cooked pasta, in a sub roll, or alongside garlic bread. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve
Oven-baked pork meatballs with marinara are best served over spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne pasta. They can also be served as meatball subs with toasted rolls or as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving. Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Recipe Tips
Use fresh herbs and Parmesan for maximum flavor. Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep them tender. Baking on parchment paper prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup. Simmering meatballs in the sauce after baking enhances flavor and keeps them moist.
Variations
Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Place a small cube of mozzarella inside each meatball before baking.
Spicy Marinara: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb Variations: Use rosemary, thyme, or basil in the meatballs for a different flavor profile.
Italian Sausage Meatballs: Mix ground pork with Italian sausage for a richer taste.
Slow Cooker Version: Bake or sear meatballs first, then simmer in marinara in a slow cooker for 2–3 hours.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigeration: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container with sauce for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs with or without sauce in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
Special Equipment Needed
Baking sheet with parchment paper
Mixing bowl
Skillet or saucepan for sauce
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula or tongs
Conclusion
Oven-Baked Pork Meatballs with Marinara is a classic, comforting dish that is easy to prepare, flavorful, and versatile. Tender pork meatballs baked to perfection and simmered in a rich marinara sauce create a meal that’s perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or entertaining guests. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty Italian-inspired comfort food that is satisfying, delicious, and simple to make.
Oven-Baked Pork Meatballs with Marinara
Description
Oven-Baked Pork Meatballs with Marinara is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy pork meatballs and rich, savory marinara sauce. This recipe offers the perfect balance of seasonings and textures, with the meatballs baked to perfection rather than fried, resulting in a lighter yet equally satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
For the Marinara Sauce
For Garnish
Instructions
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Step 1: Preheat Oven : Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
-
Step 2: Prepare Meatballs : In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, black pepper, and milk if using. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender. Form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Step 3: Bake Meatballs : Bake meatballs in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
-
Step 4: Prepare Marinara Sauce : While meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to blend flavors.
-
Step 5: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce : Once meatballs are baked, add them to the simmering marinara sauce. Coat evenly and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Step 6: Serve : Serve hot over cooked pasta, in a sub roll, or alongside garlic bread. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
