Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than these mouthwatering Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs. This recipe takes the classic meatball to a whole new level by adding a gooey surprise in the center – melted mozzarella cheese! With a crispy exterior and a cheesy, flavorful interior, these meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love these Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you’ll have these meatballs ready to bake in no time. They are also a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on their own, with pasta, or even in a sandwich. Plus, the combination of juicy meat, zesty seasonings, and melted cheese makes these meatballs incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices or substituting different types of cheese. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork for a lighter version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Take a small portion of the meat mixture, about the size of a golf ball, and flatten it in the palm of your hand.
- Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of the flattened meat and carefully shape the meat around the cheese, forming a ball. Make sure the cheese is completely covered by the meat to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
- Repeat this process with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes, placing the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs with the warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping or spoon the sauce over the meatballs before serving.
These meatballs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is still gooey and melted. They make a great appetizer for parties or a satisfying main dish for a family dinner.
Expert Tips for Success
For the best results, follow these expert tips:
- Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a balanced flavor and texture.
- Make sure to fully incorporate the seasonings and breadcrumbs into the meat mixture for even distribution of flavors.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture, as it can result in tough meatballs.
- Handle the meat mixture gently when shaping the meatballs to avoid compacting it too much.
- Choose a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own for the most delicious flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
- Swap the ground beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Instead of mozzarella, use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or feta.
- For a gluten-free version, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them in various ways:
- As an appetizer with toothpicks and a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta, topped with additional marinara sauce and grated Parmesan cheese.
- In a sub sandwich with toasted bread, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.
- As a topping for pizza, along with your favorite toppings and cheeses.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs:
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! These meatballs are freezer-friendly. After baking, let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the classic flavors of meat and cheese in a delightful way. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, these meatballs are sure to satisfy. With their crispy exterior and oozing melted mozzarella center, they are bound to become a family favorite. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the cheesy goodness for yourself? Prepare to be amazed!
Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Delicious meatballs with a gooey surprise in the center – melted mozzarella cheese, baked to golden perfection. These Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are flavorful, satisfying, and sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Take a small portion of the meat mixture, about the size of a golf ball, and flatten it in the palm of your hand.
- Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of the flattened meat and carefully shape the meat around the cheese, forming a ball. Make sure the cheese is completely covered by the meat to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
- Repeat this process with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes, placing the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs with the warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping or spoon the sauce over the meatballs before serving.
Nutrition Facts
