Ingredients:

  • 24 oz frozen lean beef meatballs, thawed
  • 2 cups low-sugar marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 4 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 loaf (12 oz) Italian garlic bread, sliced or cubed
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, and salt until velvety.
  3. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the sliced garlic bread in a single layer across the bottom.
  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread to create a moisture shield.
  5. In a separate bowl, toss the thawed meatballs with the low-sugar marinara, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
  6. Spoon the meatballs and sauce over the cream cheese barrier, ensuring meatballs are fully submerged.
  7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top of the meatballs.
  8. If using cubed garlic bread, press the cubes into the cheese; if using slices, lay them across the top.
  9. Brush the top of the bread with melted butter.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the bread edges are deep mahogany.