Gourmet Delight: Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Welcome to a culinary adventure that combines the classic appeal of meatballs with the irresistible allure of melted mozzarella cheese. Our Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Made with ground chicken, turkey, or beef, these tender meatballs are infused with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, then stuffed with gooey mozzarella for an extra burst of flavor. Baked to golden perfection and served with your favorite pasta sauce, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Let’s dive into the kitchen and create a dish that will delight your taste buds!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken, ground turkey, or lean ground beef
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 raw egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs, plus more for later (or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
• 2 teaspoons dry oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 cup fresh chopped parsley
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• 20 baby mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Pasta sauce, homemade or 25 ounces store-bought marinara

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, minced garlic, beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dry oregano, sweet paprika, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Form the Meatballs:
   • Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand.
   • Place a mozzarella ball in the center and gently fold the meat around it, shaping it into a ball. Ensure the mozzarella is completely enclosed within the meat.
4. Coat the Meatballs:
   • Roll the stuffed meatballs in additional breadcrumbs to coat them lightly. This will help to create a crispy exterior when baked.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
   • Place the coated meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for even cooking.
6. Bake the Meatballs:
   • Drizzle the meatballs with a little extra virgin olive oil for added flavor and moisture.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
7. Serve with Pasta Sauce:
   • While the meatballs are baking, warm up your favorite pasta sauce in a saucepan on the stove.
   • Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the saucepan with the pasta sauce and gently toss to coat.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Serve the baked mozzarella stuffed meatballs hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Meat Options: Feel free to use ground chicken, turkey, or lean beef according to your preference. Each option will impart its unique flavor to the meatballs.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese for stuffing the meatballs, such as provolone, cheddar, or fontina, for a delicious twist.
• Herb Substitutions: If fresh parsley is unavailable, you can use dried parsley or other herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage.

Q: Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of making them from scratch? A: While homemade meatballs offer superior flavor and freshness, you can certainly use store-bought meatballs if you’re short on time. Simply follow the baking instructions on the package and proceed with stuffing them with mozzarella.

Q: Can I use marinara sauce for serving? A: Yes, marinara sauce works wonderfully with these meatballs. You can use homemade marinara sauce or opt for a high-quality store-bought version for convenience.

Q: Are these meatballs suitable for a keto or low-carb diet? A: To make these meatballs keto or low-carb friendly, you can replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. Additionally, choose a pasta sauce that is low in carbs or make your own keto-friendly sauce.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to reduce the carb content.
• Use a low-carb pasta sauce or make your own keto-friendly marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes and herbs.
• Ensure all ingredients are keto-compliant, including the ground meat and cheese.

Low-Carb Version:

• Follow the keto version substitutions and further reduce the carb content by omitting any additional bread or breadcrumbs from the recipe.
• Serve the meatballs with a side of zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative to pasta.

Elevate your dinner table with the irresistible flavors of our Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs—a culinary masterpiece that combines juicy ground meat with creamy mozzarella cheese for a truly indulgent experience. Whether served as a comforting weeknight meal or showcased at a special gathering, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress. With their crispy exterior and gooey center, they are sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to savor every bite of these delectable meatballs—it’s a taste sensation you won’t soon forget!