Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Meatball Marinara Poppers featuring tender meatballs smothered in warm marinara sauce, topped with gooey melted mozzarella and fresh parsley. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, these bite-sized treats combine classic Italian flavors with a fun presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 80 meatballs (homemade or frozen & cooked)
Cheese
- 16 oz mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (mixed into the cheese)
- Grated Parmesan (for topping)
Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or your favorite jarred)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Garnish & Extras
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
- Drizzle of balsamic glaze (for topping)
- Mini skewers or mini muffin tins (for serving)
Instructions
- Prep meatballs: If using frozen meatballs, bake them following the package instructions until fully cooked. If using homemade meatballs, cook thoroughly on the stovetop or oven until browned and cooked through, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Warm marinara: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the marinara sauce until hot and bubbly. Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if desired.
- Assemble poppers: Arrange the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment or in mini muffin tins. Spoon a generous amount of warm marinara sauce over each meatball, then sprinkle each with mozzarella cheese mixed with Italian seasoning for added flavor.
- Broil: Set your oven to the broil setting. Place the assembled poppers under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Finish & serve: Remove the poppers from the oven and immediately sprinkle with minced fresh parsley. Optionally, add grated Parmesan and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch. Serve hot on mini skewers or in the muffin tins for a fun presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella for best melting results and flavor.
- If you prefer less heat, skip the red pepper flakes.
- Mini muffin tins help keep the poppers neat and easy to serve.
- Make sure to watch closely when broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
- These poppers are great for parties, game day snacks, or casual gatherings.
