Meatballs are a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. When we add Kraft Parmesan Cheese to the mix, it takes the flavor to a whole new level. This recipe combines the rich, savory taste of Parmesan with tender, juicy meatballs that are perfect for any meal.
Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main course, or a party snack, these meatballs are sure to impress. They’re easy to make and packed with cheesy goodness that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatball recipe and bring some cheesy comfort to your table.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatball recipe, having the right ingredients is essential. Below we break down the components into meatballs, sauce, and additional elements for a seamless, delicious cooking experience.
Meatball Ingredients
Our meatball mixture balances flavor and texture perfectly. Here’s what we’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80% lean for juiciness)
- ½ cup Kraft Parmesan Cheese (grated for that iconic cheesy flavor)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
- 1 large egg (to bind the mixture)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced fresh for aroma)
- ¼ cup onion (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Sauce Ingredients
The sauce complements the meatballs by adding rich, tangy notes:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup Kraft Parmesan Cheese (extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional but enhances depth)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a subtle kick)
Additional Ingredients
These bring the dish together for serving and garnish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Chopped, for garnish |
| Cooked spaghetti | 12 ounces | Optional, for serving |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing onions (optional) |
With these ingredients organized and ready, we can dive straight into crafting our Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs that burst with cheesy, savory delight.
Equipment Needed
To make the Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatball Recipe perfectly, we need to gather the right equipment to streamline our cooking process and achieve the best texture and flavor. Below is a detailed list of essential tools paired with their specific roles:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combine ground beef, Kraft Parmesan Cheese, and seasonings thoroughly |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precisely measure ingredients like breadcrumbs, spices, and Parmesan |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Chop garlic and onion finely for the meatball mixture |
| Baking Sheet or Ovenproof Pan | Arrange meatballs for baking evenly, ensuring uniform cooking |
| Parchment Paper / Silicone Mat | Prevent meatballs from sticking to the baking surface |
| Large Skillet or Saucepan | Sauté garlic or onions if needed and cook the marinara sauce |
| Wooden Spoon or Spatula | Stir and mix sauce and meatballs evenly |
| Meatball Scoop or Spoon | Form consistent-sized meatballs for uniform cooking |
| Wire Rack (optional) | Let meatballs cool slightly and retain crispness after baking |
| Serving Platter or Bowl | Present the finished Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs attractively |
| Pasta Pot (if serving with spaghetti) | Cook pasta to accompany the meatballs, ensuring timing coordination |
Note: Using a meatball scoop helps us maintain consistent size, which is key for even cooking and attractive presentation. Baking on parchment paper or a silicone mat makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking, preserving the meatball’s tender texture.
By assembling all these tools before starting, we ensure a smooth preparation workflow, allowing us to focus on the rich blend of Kraft Parmesan Cheese and seasonings that make this recipe unforgettable.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, proper Prep Work sets the foundation for delicious Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs. Getting the key components ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience and uniform flavor.
Preparing the Meatball Mixture
We start by combining the ingredients for the meatball mixture with precision for great texture and taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, add:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- ½ cup Kraft Parmesan Cheese, grated finely
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian style)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced finely
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Using clean hands or a fork, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
- Portion the mixture using a meatball scoop or tablespoon measuring spoon for consistent size—this helps them cook evenly.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Prep Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Use 80/20 ratio |
| Kraft Parmesan Cheese | ½ cup | Finely grated |
| Breadcrumbs | ⅓ cup | Plain or Italian style |
| Egg | 1 large | Beaten |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Onion | ¼ cup | Finely chopped |
| Salt | 1 tsp | |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
Preparing the Sauce
For the sauce, we want to infuse it with rich, savory flavors that complement the cheesy meatballs perfectly.
- In a medium skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add 1 cup marinara sauce to warm gently.
- Stir in:
- ¼ cup Kraft Parmesan Cheese for extra cheesy richness
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ⅛ tsp crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat
- Simmer the sauce lightly for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
This sauce will coat the meatballs beautifully, enhancing the Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatball Recipe’s signature taste.
Cooking the Meatballs
Now that we have our meatball mixture and sauce ready, it’s time to cook the Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs. We’ll explore two reliable methods: pan-frying and oven-baking, to suit your preferred cooking style and desired texture.
Pan-Frying Method
- Heat the Skillet
Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Ensure the oil shimmers but does not smoke to prevent burning.
- Shape the Meatballs
Using a meatball scoop or clean hands, form the mixture into uniform balls, about 1½ inches in diameter for even cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs
Place the meatballs carefully in the skillet, leaving space between each. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them to get a golden-brown crust.
- Turn Meatballs
Gently turn each meatball to brown all sides evenly, about 8-10 minutes total cooking time. Use a spoon to baste with pan juices for extra flavor and moisture.
- Check Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Simmer in Sauce
Transfer the browned meatballs to the marinara sauce prepared earlier. Simmer on low for 10 minutes to blend flavors thoroughly.
Oven-Baking Method
- Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Form Meatballs
Shape the meatballs evenly, about 1½ inches each, for consistent cooking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the meatballs on the prepared sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow heat circulation.
- Bake Meatballs
Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through to brown all sides.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 400°F (205°C) | – | Use convection if available |
| Baking Time | 400°F (205°C) | 15-18 minutes | Flip halfway for even browning |
| Internal Temp Target | 160°F (71°C) | Ensure safe cooking temperature |
- Simmer in Sauce
After baking, move the meatballs to the sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes on low heat to infuse the cheesy, savory notes.
Both methods yield juicy Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs bursting with flavor. We recommend pan-frying for a crispy outer layer and oven-baking when preparing larger batches with less hands-on cooking.
Making the Sauce
To complement our Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs perfectly, getting the sauce right is essential. The sauce brings together the savory and cheesy notes that make this dish irresistible. Here’s how we create a sauce that is rich, flavorful, and balanced.
Step 1: Gather Our Sauce Ingredients
We combine the following key ingredients to build a robust base:
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (choose your favorite brand for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup Kraft Parmesan Cheese (grated, for that sharp, creamy finish)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (adds a sweet, earthy-herb touch)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a gentle heat kick; adjust to taste)
Step 2: Heat and Flavor the Sauce
We start by warming 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, it unlocks its fruity aroma, which will enhance the sauce’s depth.
Tip: Using olive oil first creates a smooth base layer that carries the flavors beautifully.
Next, we pour in the 24 ounces of marinara sauce. Stir gently to combine, allowing the warm oil to infuse the sauce. This process typically takes about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Seasoning and Cheese
We sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, then stir the mixture thoroughly. These spices add complexity—basil with its bright herbal notes and red pepper flakes with a subtle warmth.
Finally, we fold in 1/2 cup of Kraft Parmesan Cheese. The cheese melts smoothly, thickening the sauce and lending that signature Kraft Parmesan cheesy richness that ties the entire dish together.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
We reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes. This step allows flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to a luscious consistency that clings well to our meatballs.
| Sauce Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Marinara sauce | 24 oz | Base, rich tomato flavor |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Enhances flavor and smoothness |
| Kraft Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup grated | Adds cheesy depth and thickness |
| Dried basil | 1 tsp | Herbal aroma and sweetness |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 1/4 tsp | Mild heat and flavor complexity |
Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Once our Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs are cooked (whether pan-fried or baked), we gently transfer them into the sauce. We coat the meatballs evenly by simmering them in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes. This step ensures each bite bursts with integrated flavors.
“The key to an unforgettable meatball dish lies within the sauce—bold, cheesy, and perfectly simmered.”
By following these steps, our sauce becomes a delicious canvas that enhances every meatball and turns the dish into a comforting, cheesy masterpiece.
Combining Meatballs and Sauce
To create the perfect Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatball Recipe, combining the meatballs and sauce properly is essential. This step ensures every bite is rich with cheesy warmth and savory marinara goodness.
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Base
After simmering the sauce with olive oil, marinara, Kraft Parmesan Cheese, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes, keep the sauce gently bubbling on low heat. This will keep the flavors vibrant and ready to receive the meatballs.
Step 2: Add the Cooked Meatballs to the Sauce
Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the cooked meatballs from the skillet or baking sheet into the simmering sauce.
- Tip: Leave the pan juices behind if pan-frying, to avoid excess oil in the sauce.
- Gently nestle the meatballs in the sauce, allowing them to be fully coated.
Step 3: Simmer Together for Rich Flavor
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pan. Let the meatballs soak in the sauce for 10 to 15 minutes. This process:
- Infuses the meatballs with the tangy tomato flavors
- Lets the Parmesan Cheese inside the meatballs melt and mingle with the sauce
- Thickens the sauce slightly as flavors secondarily meld
| Step | Action | Purpose | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Transfer meatballs to simmering sauce | Coating meatballs with sauce | Immediate |
| 2 | Simmer meatballs and sauce together | Infusing flavors, melting cheese, thickening sauce | 10 – 15 mins |
Step 4: Final Taste and Adjustments
After simmering, taste the sauce and meatballs together. Adjust seasoning if needed with:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Additional Kraft Parmesan Cheese for extra cheesy depth
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Serve the combined meatballs and sauce over freshly cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Pro Tip: Keeping the meatballs in the sauce not only warms them perfectly but also prevents them from drying out, ensuring every bite is juicy, tender, and loaded with that signature Kraft Parmesan Cheese flavor we’ve created.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs, we recommend serving them in ways that highlight their rich flavor and cheesy goodness. Here are several versatile Serving Suggestions to transform this dish into a memorable meal:
Classic Spaghetti Pairing
Serve the meatballs over a bed of al dente spaghetti. The tender pasta strands soak up the flavorful marinara sauce, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Sprinkle extra Kraft Parmesan Cheese on top and garnish with fresh parsley to elevate the presentation and add a burst of color.
Submarine Sandwich Style
For a hearty sandwich, load a toasted hoagie roll with several meatballs and sauce. Add slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese, then broil briefly to melt the cheese and meld the flavors. This makes a satisfying meatball sub perfect for a casual lunch or game-day snack.
Appetizer Skewers
Thread small meatballs onto cocktail skewers paired with cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Serve alongside a small bowl of marinara sauce for easy dipping. These bite-sized appetizer skewers are ideal for parties and gatherings, offering a fun and flavorful way to enjoy the meatballs.
Creamy Polenta or Mashed Potatoes
Place the meatballs on a bed of creamy polenta or fluffy mashed potatoes. The smooth, buttery base contrasts beautifully with the savory meatballs and hearty sauce, making for a comforting and elegant dinner option.
Vegetable Side Pairings
Complement the dish with roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or green beans. These lighter sides balance the richness of the meatballs and add nutritional variety to the meal.
| Serving Style | Suggested Sides/Accompaniments | Presentation Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti | Spaghetti pasta, extra Parmesan, parsley | Sprinkle cheese and herbs on top |
| Meatball Sub | Hoagie roll, provolone/mozzarella cheese | Broil to melt cheese |
| Appetizer Skewers | Cherry tomatoes, basil, marinara dipping sauce | Use cocktail skewers for easy serving |
| Polenta/Mashed Potatoes | Creamy polenta or mashed potatoes | Serve meatballs atop the base |
| Vegetable Sides | Roasted broccoli, zucchini, green beans | Arrange veggies around the meatballs |
Tip: Keep the meatballs warm in the sauce until ready to serve to maintain juiciness and maximize flavor.
By exploring these serving options, we make sure each bite of our Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs is a delicious experience tailored to different occasions and personal tastes.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs anytime, mastering make-ahead and storage methods is essential. Here are our carefully tested tips to keep these cheesy meatballs fresh, flavorful, and ready-to-serve.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance: We recommend mixing and shaping the meatballs up to 24 hours ahead. Store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
- Par-cook the meatballs: For easy finishing, partially cook the meatballs by pan-frying or baking them until just browned but not fully cooked through. Cool completely and refrigerate.
- Prepare the sauce: The marinara sauce with Kraft Parmesan Cheese blend can be simmered and cooled, then refrigerated in an airtight container.
This advance prep saves time on busy days and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Refrigeration Storage
Store cooked or par-cooked meatballs and sauce separately or combined. Use airtight containers for best freshness.
| Item | Storage Method | Refrigerator Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked meatballs | Airtight container | Up to 4 days | Ensure meatballs are cooled before storing |
| Par-cooked meatballs | Sealed container | Up to 24 hours | Finish cooking before serving |
| Prepared sauce | Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Reheat gently before serving |
| Meatballs combined with sauce | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Keep sauce and meatballs submerged to retain moisture |
Freezing for Longer Storage
Freezing Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs extends shelf life and preserves quality when done correctly.
- Freeze raw meatballs: Place raw meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce: Cool completely then freeze in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags for convenience.
| Freezing Item | Freezer Storage Duration | Thawing and Use |
|---|---|---|
| Raw meatballs | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in fridge, cook fully |
| Cooked meatballs with sauce | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight, reheat gently |
Tips for Reheating
- From chilled: Reheat meatballs in sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- From frozen: Defrost overnight in the refrigerator then reheat following the chilled method.
- For crispy meatballs, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
“Keeping meatballs moist is the key to preserving their juicy, cheesy goodness.” Always store meatballs submerged in sauce or with a bit of olive oil to lock in moisture.
Summary Checklist
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Make-ahead prep | Shape and par-cook meatballs; prepare sauce |
| Refrigerate | Use airtight containers; store separately or combined |
| Freeze | Freeze raw or cooked; use freezer-safe packaging |
| Reheat | Warm gently on stove or in oven for best texture |
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, our Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs stay delicious and ready whenever cravings strike.
Conclusion
Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs bring together simplicity and rich flavor in a way that’s perfect for any meal or gathering. By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you’ll create juicy, cheesy meatballs that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a tasty appetizer, these meatballs add a comforting touch to your table.
With easy prep, versatile serving options, and smart storage advice, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste. We’re confident that once you try this recipe, it’ll become a favorite go-to for satisfying, flavorful meals. Let’s get cooking and enjoy every bite of these delicious meatballs!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs?
You’ll need ground beef, Kraft Parmesan Cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, marinara sauce, olive oil, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and cooked spaghetti.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative. Preheat your oven, place the meatballs on a baking sheet, and bake until cooked through. This method works well for larger batches with less hands-on time.
How do I make the sauce for these meatballs?
Heat olive oil, add marinara sauce, Kraft Parmesan Cheese, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer the sauce to blend the flavors perfectly before combining with the meatballs.
What equipment do I need to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a baking sheet, cutting board, knife, skillet, and a meatball scoop or spoon for shaping.
Are these meatballs suitable as party snacks?
Absolutely! They make delicious appetizers or party snacks when served on skewers with cherry tomatoes and basil or as meatball subs.
Can I prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them in advance. Store meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer, and reheat gently to maintain juiciness.
What’s the best way to serve Kraft Parmesan Cheese Meatballs?
Serve them with spaghetti, in a toasted hoagie roll, over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I ensure the meatballs stay juicy?
Simmer the cooked meatballs gently in the sauce to keep them moist and flavorful. Avoid overcooking to retain their tenderness.