Description
Irresistible cheesy meatball bites bring Italian comfort straight to your appetizer table. Packed with savory ground beef, melted mozzarella, and aromatic herbs, these bite-sized delights promise to be the star of any gathering you host.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Protein:
- 12 pre-made frozen meatballs
Cheese and Dairy:
- 1 cup (226 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
Dough and Sauce:
- 1 (8-ounce/226 grams) can Pillsbury Crescent rolls
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) marinara sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating it to 375°F (190°C) and coat a standard muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Gently unroll the crescent dough, separating it into two large sections. Slice each section into thirds, then cut those segments down the middle to create 12 uniform dough squares. For round crescent rolls, use one per muffin cavity.
- Carefully press each dough square into the muffin cups, ensuring the dough covers the bottom and slightly climbs up the sides to create a small vessel.
- Dollop a modest layer of marinara sauce at the base of each dough cup, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese to create a flavorful foundation.
- Nestle a single meatball (frozen or thawed) into the center of each prepared dough cup, creating a hearty core.
- Drape additional marinara sauce over the meatballs, then generously cover with another layer of mozzarella cheese for maximum melty goodness.
- Transfer the muffin tin to the preheated oven and bake for 15-17 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crust and bubbling cheese that signals perfect doneness.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the meatball bites rest for a few minutes to stabilize. Delicately extract each bite from the muffin tin using a careful lifting technique.
- Serve immediately, optionally accompanied by extra marinara sauce for dipping and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Versatile Party Snack: These cheesy meatball bites are perfect for game days, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends and family.
- Quick Preparation: Minimal ingredients and simple assembly make this recipe a go-to for busy home cooks looking for a delicious appetizer.
- Freezer-Friendly Option: Use frozen meatballs to save time and add convenience to your cooking process.
- Customizable Filling: Experiment with different types of marinara sauce, cheese varieties, or even swap meatballs for other protein options.
- Pro Tip: Ensure even cooking by pressing dough squares firmly into muffin cups and distributing ingredients evenly.
- Storage Hack: Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to maintain their crispy texture and melty cheese goodness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg