Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Who doesn’t love a comforting meal that oozes with cheese and flavor? This mozzarella-stuffed meatball recipe is a delightful twist on the classic meatball, bursting with gooey mozzarella cheese at the center. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner with family or a fun get-together with friends, these meatballs are sure to impress. Let’s get cooking and create something that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

I first stumbled upon the idea of stuffed meatballs during a family gathering, where my aunt made a version filled with surprise ingredients. When I tried making my own, I decided to go with gooey mozzarella, its cheesy perfection. This recipe not only brings smiles to the table but also allows for creative spins, like using different types of ground meat or herbs. Plus, these mozzarella meatballs are perfect for a variety of dishes, be it spaghetti, subs, or served with roasted veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef – you can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – feel free to use whole wheat for an added nutritional boost
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic – minced
• 1 large egg – this helps bind the mixture together
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese – cubed, for stuffing the meatballs
• 2 cups marinara sauce – homemade or store-bought, for serving

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps create that perfect golden crust on your meatballs.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands to mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 3:

Take a small handful of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then fold the meat around it, shaping it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed.

Step 4:

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown.

Step 5:

While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a pan over medium heat.

Step 6:

Once the meatballs are done, add them to the pan with the marinara sauce. Let them simmer for a few minutes to soak up all that rich flavor.

Nutritional Information

These mozzarella-stuffed meatballs offer a satisfying balance of protein and flavors. Each serving (approximately 2 meatballs) contains around 300 calories, with 20 grams of protein, 18 grams of fat, and 15 grams of carbohydrates. Adjust the portions and ingredients to suit your dietary needs.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten up this recipe? Consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce the fat content. You can also opt for whole-grain breadcrumbs and low-fat mozzarella cheese. Adding more fresh veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, to the meat mixture can amp up the nutritional value, too.

Serving Suggestions

These delicious meatballs pair beautifully with pasta or on sub rolls for a hearty sandwich. You can serve them over a bed of zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a healthier twist or alongside roasted veggies for a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of fresh basil or extra Parmesan on top for that finishing touch.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is over-mixing the meat mixture. This can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combining the ingredients until just mixed generally gives the best texture. Also, make sure you don’t skip the cheese stuffing. That delightful burst of melted mozzarella is the highlight of this dish.

Chef’s Notes

• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• To freeze, place the uncooked stuffed meatballs on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding additional cooking time.
• Experiment with different cheeses. Provolone or Fontina can also create an incredible cheesy center.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?
  A1: Absolutely; Baking is a great way to achieve a healthier version that still gets that golden crust.
• Q2: How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
  A2: You can check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer.
• Q3: Can I use plant-based meat in this recipe?
  A3: Yes, you can substitute with your favorite plant-based ground meat. Just ensure it’s firm enough to hold shape when stuffed.

If you’re looking for more cheesy goodness in your life, don’t forget to check out my Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. Each dish brings its own flair while keeping that comforting, cheesy sensation alive. Enjoy cooking these delightful mozzarella-stuffed meatballs, and remember, cooking is all about love, flavors, and sharing.

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