Go Back
When it comes to easy and delicious meals that the whole family will love, Cheesy Pesto Baked Meatball Bites stand out as a versatile option. These bite-sized morsels combine the rich flavors of ground meat, creamy cheese, and fragrant basil pesto, making them the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack for gatherings. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also deliver a delightful explosion of taste with every bite, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Baked Meatball School Lunch Ideas

Discover the deliciousness of Cheesy Pesto Baked Meatball Bites, a perfect blend of flavor that the whole family will love. These versatile bite-sized treats combine ground meat, creamy cheese, and fragrant basil pesto, making them ideal for dinner or snacks. Easy to prepare and customizable, you can use different meats and cheeses to suit your taste. They're great as appetizers, in lunchboxes, or paired with salads. Get ready for a tasty explosion with every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil pesto

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1 large egg

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

    Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, pesto, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

      Form the Meatballs: With your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.

          Add the Cheese: Remove the meatballs from the oven and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each meatball. Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

            Serve: Allow the meatballs to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with marinara sauce for dipping, making them perfect for a school lunch.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4-6 servings