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The foundation of your Mini Garlic Bread Meatball Melts is the bread you choose. Opt for a high-quality loaf that can hold up to the hearty toppings and toasting process. French or Italian bread works beautifully due to their crusty exterior and soft center, which perfectly balance the savory meatballs and gooey cheese. If you're looking for a bit of flavor, consider using garlic-infused bread or bread with herbs.

Mini Garlic Bread Meatball Melts

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Mini Garlic Bread Meatball Melts! This delicious recipe combines savory meatballs, crispy garlic bread, and melted cheese for a flavorful twist on classics. Perfect for sharing at family dinners or a cozy night in, these bite-sized delights are both easy to prepare and visually appealing. With rich flavors, customizable ingredients, and meal pairing suggestions, these melts are bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

12 small garlic bread slices (or French bread slices topped with garlic butter)

1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined but do not overmix. Shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

      Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

        Prepare the Garlic Bread: While the meatballs are baking, slice the garlic bread into 12 equal pieces (if using a loaf). Brush or spread the garlic butter on each slice.

          Toast the Garlic Bread: In the same oven, place the garlic bread slices on a separate baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.

            Assemble the Melts: Remove the meatballs and garlic bread from the oven. Spoon a bit of marinara sauce onto each slice of garlic bread. Top with 1-2 meatballs, and then add a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.

              Melt the Cheese: Return the assembled melts to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot.

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