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Meatballs are a beloved staple found in various cuisines around the globe, each offering its unique twist on this versatile dish. From classic Italian spaghetti and meatballs to Swedish meatballs served with lingonberry sauce, the appeal of meatballs transcends cultural boundaries. They are more than just a meal; they represent comfort, nostalgia, and warmth, making them a popular choice for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.

Baked Meatball School Lunch Ideas

Discover the perfect blend of flavors with our Cheesy BBQ Meatball Surprise recipe! This delightful dish combines juicy meatballs with smoky BBQ sauce and gooey melted cheese, making it a hit for any gathering or weeknight dinner. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, you can experiment with different meats and sauces to suit your taste. Impress your family and friends with this satisfying comfort food that guarantees smiles at the dinner table. Enjoy a hearty meal that's as fun to make as it is to eat!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Optional: sliced scallions and additional cheese for topping

Instructions
 

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

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

      Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, roll the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden color. You can check doneness with a meat thermometer; they should reach at least 160°F (70°C).

          Add BBQ Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat the BBQ sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and brush or drizzle the warm BBQ sauce over each meatball. If you like, sprinkle additional cheese and sliced scallions on top for added flavor.

            Final Bake: Return the sauced meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

              Serve and Pack: Let the meatballs cool slightly before packing them in a lunchbox. They are perfect served with whole grain rolls, veggie sticks, or over a bed of rice or pasta. Add an extra small container of BBQ sauce for dipping!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6