Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Elevate Your Dinner Game with Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: A Savory Delight for Any Occasion

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our irresistible Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs! Bursting with savory flavors and oozing with melted cheese, these meatballs are sure to become a star attraction at your dinner table. Whether served atop a bed of pasta, nestled in a hearty marinara sauce, or enjoyed as a standalone appetizer, each bite is a symphony of deliciousness that will leave you craving more. Join us as we delve into the art of making Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs and discover how easy it is to elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 small onion, grated
• 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons marinara sauce (such as Victoria’s), plus 1/3 cup for serving
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package of ground beef (1.5-2 lbs)
• 16 cubed pieces of smoked mozzarella cheese (1/2 inch cubes)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated onion, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian bread crumbs, egg, marinara sauce, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the ground beef to the bowl and gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of smoked mozzarella cheese in the center, then gently shape the meat mixture around the cheese to form a meatball. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes.
4. Preheat your grill or smoker to medium-high heat. Place the stuffed meatballs on the grill grate and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly charred on the outside.
5. Remove the meatballs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. Serve the Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs hot, drizzled with marinara sauce and garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• For a smokier flavor, you can use smoked paprika in place of the crushed red pepper flakes.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for stuffing the meatballs. Gouda, provolone, or cheddar would all work well.
• If you don’t have a grill or smoker, you can also cook the meatballs in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

• To make a keto-friendly version of Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the Italian bread crumbs.
• Use sugar-free marinara sauce or make your own low-carb marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
• Serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles or alongside a crisp salad for a low-carb meal option.

In conclusion, Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic favorite that will delight your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. With their juicy, flavorful interior and gooey cheese center, these meatballs are a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or cozying up indoors on a chilly evening, these meatballs are sure to steal the show. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as turkey tends to cook faster than beef.

Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Alternatively, you can also freeze the uncooked meatballs for future use. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Q: Can I use different seasonings in the meat mixture? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for additional flavor, or adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the level of heat.

Q: Can I cook the meatballs in a skillet instead of on the grill? A: Yes, you can cook the meatballs in a skillet on the stovetop if you prefer. Simply heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of cubed cheese for stuffing the meatballs? A: While pre-shredded cheese can be used, it may not melt as evenly or provide the same gooey texture as cubed cheese. We recommend using cubed cheese for the best results.