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Cheesy Baked Meat Patties

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  • Prep time: 20 minutes

  • Cook time: 25 minutes

  • Total time: 45 minutes

  • Serving size: 4 servings (2 patties per serving)

  • Course: Main Course

  • Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Cooking Intensities & Equipment

  • Skill Level: Easy / Beginner-Friendly

  • Oven Temperature: 400°F (200°C)

  • Equipment Needed: Large mixing bowl, baking sheet lined with parchment paper, measuring cups and spoons, skillet (optional if searing beforehand).

Ingredients

To make these mouthwatering patties, you will need a balanced mix of ground meat, binders, seasonings, and cheese.

For the Meat Patties:

  • Ground Beef: 1.5 lbs (preferably 85/15 lean ground chuck for the ideal balance of juiciness and flavor)

  • Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (plain or Italian-style)

  • Large Egg: 1 whole (to bind the mixture together)

  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced finely

  • Yellow Onion: 1/2 medium, finely diced

  • Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped

  • Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon

  • Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground

  • Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (adds deep umami flavor)

For the Cheese Filling & Topping:

  • Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, freshly shredded (or cut into small cubes for a surprise cheesy center)

  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, freshly grated (for a savory, golden crust)

  • Marinara Sauce: 1 cup (optional, for serving or spooning over the top before baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Workspace

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Having your station ready makes the assembly process seamless.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, diced onion, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Crack the egg directly into the bowl.

Pro Tip: Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients together just until combined. Avoid over-mixing or kneading the meat, as this can make the final patties dense and tough rather than light and tender.

Step 3: Form and Stuff the Patties

Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Take one portion, flatten it slightly in the palm of your hand, and place about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese right in the center. Take a second portion of meat, flatten it, and place it directly over the cheese, pinching and sealing the edges firmly all the way around to lock the cheese inside.

Repeat this process for the remaining meat to create 8 stuffed patties. Alternatively, if you prefer a simpler version, you can form flat patties and simply pile the cheese on top during the final minutes of baking.

Step 4: Initial Bake

Place the formed patties onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This allows the meat to cook through and release its initial juices.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Finish

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. If desired, spoon a couple of tablespoons of warm marinara sauce over the top of each patty, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese generously over each one.

Step 6: Final Melt and Brown

Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the beef reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown at the edges.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the patties from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This short resting period allows the internal juices and melted cheese to settle, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Garnish with a little extra fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile Cheesy Baked Meat Patties pair wonderfully with a wide variety of side dishes:

  • Low-Carb Option: Serve them alongside roasted garlic broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing.

  • Classic Comfort: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the savory juices and marinara sauce.

  • Sandwich Style: Place a patty inside a toasted brioche bun with extra lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of garlic aioli for an incredible gourmet burger experience.

Nutrition Information

Note: Nutrition values are estimated per serving (2 patties) based on standard ingredients and may vary slightly depending on the exact brand of meat and cheese used.

  • Calories: 420 kcal

  • Total Fat: 26g

    • Saturated Fat: 11g

  • Cholesterol: 115mg

  • Sodium: 750mg

  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g

    • Dietary Fiber: 1g

    • Sugars: 2g

  • Protein: 38g

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