Italian Meatball Appetizer Recipe

Step 1

Mince 2 cloves of garlic and then thinly slice the remaining 2 cloves.

Step 2

In a large bowl, add ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, parsley, basil, minced garlic, and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese—season with salt and black pepper. Mix until combined. Use your hands to roll into golf ball-sized balls.

Step 3

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place meatballs in skillet and brown on all sides. When the meatballs have developed a nice crispy crust, remove them from the skillet and set it aside. Now, over medium heat, pour the marinara into the skillet. Stir in the sliced garlic and remaining Parmesan. Once it's simmering, place your cooked meatballs back in the sauce.  Make sure to spoon some sauce over the meatballs so they're nice and covered. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer the meatballs for another 10-12 minute, or until cooked through.

Step 4

Top each meatball with a slice of mozzarella. Cover the pan with the lid again and heat until the cheese is melted.

Step 5

Top each meatball with a folded basil leaf and insert a toothpick to serve.