Mozzarella stuffed meatballs are like little savory pillows of joy that explode with flavor at the first bite. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs hugging a gooey, melted center of mozzarella cheese, sending your taste buds on a delightful rollercoaster ride. savory French onion meatballs The aroma wafting through your kitchen while these beauties bake is enough to make even the most dedicated couch potato leap off the sofa and head straight for the dinner table.
I remember the first time I tried mozzarella stuffed meatballs; it was during a family gathering where my grandma brought her secret recipe. Everyone gathered around, eagerly anticipating those cheesy bites of heaven. It felt like we were all part of a culinary adventure. Now, I whip up these meatballs for everything from cozy family dinners to festive holiday feasts. cheesy fiesta potatoes They’re perfect for game nights or when you need a little comfort food to brighten your day. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make them again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These mozzarella stuffed meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile blends savory beef with melty cheese and fresh herbs for an unforgettable taste.
- Their beautiful presentation will impress guests and elevate any meal.
- These meatballs are versatile serve them with pasta, on a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer at parties.
Ingredients for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excessive grease.
- Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to bind and add texture.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binder; use one large egg per pound of meat.
- Fresh Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness and color; feel free to substitute with basil if desired.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Choose fresh mozzarella for the best melting quality, cutting it into small cubes.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic works too if you prefer.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out all the flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Your Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (the best kitchen tool) to mix everything until just combined overmixing will lead to tough meatballs!
Step 3: Form Meatballs
Take about two tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and fold the meat around it until it’s fully enclosed. Roll between your hands to shape it into a ball. Repeat this process until all mixture is used.
Step 4: Bake Those Meatballs
Place your formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Once baked, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Transfer to plates or serve them in marinara sauce over spaghetti for an authentic Italian experience.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Drizzle with extra olive oil or sprinkle some parmesan on top if you’re feeling fancy! These mozzarella stuffed meatballs are now ready to steal the show at your dinner table.
With each bite of these mozzarella stuffed meatballs bursting with cheesy goodness, you’ll discover why they’ve become a family favorite! Whether you’re enjoying them solo or sharing them with friends and family, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. creamy cheesy enchilada chili.
You Must Know
- Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish.
- With gooey cheese hidden inside, they bring joy to every bite.
- Whether served with spaghetti or as an appetizer, these meatballs guarantee smiles all around.
- Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, start by mixing your meat and seasonings. Shape the meatballs around a piece of mozzarella, then sear them in a hot pan before finishing in the oven for that delicious melty goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs! Swap beef for turkey or chicken, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or even experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or provolone for a unique flavor twist. Dorito cheese beef casserole.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat.
- Letting the mixture rest for 10 minutes can enhance flavor and texture.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs that cook evenly.
I remember the first time I made Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs for my friends. Their faces lit up with joy when they discovered the gooey surprise inside. It was a hit at our dinner party!
FAQs :
What are Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
Mozzarella stuffed meatballs are savory meatballs that have a delicious surprise inside: gooey mozzarella cheese. These meatballs typically combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, with a piece of mozzarella placed in the center before cooking. When baked or fried, the cheese melts, creating a rich and flavorful experience. They can be served alone, over pasta, or in a sub sandwich. This dish is perfect for parties, family dinners, or simply as a comfort food option.
How do you make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
To make mozzarella stuffed meatballs, start by mixing ground beef or pork with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, and herbs. Form the mixture into balls and insert a cube of mozzarella into each one. Seal the meat around the cheese to avoid leakage during cooking. Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes until browned. You can also pan-fry them for an extra crispy texture. Serve these meatballs with marinara sauce and spaghetti for a classic Italian meal. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Shrimp Hawaiian Style recipe.
Can you freeze Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze mozzarella stuffed meatballs! Prepare the meatballs but do not cook them yet. Instead, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to use, cook from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time to ensure they heat through completely.
What can I serve with Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
Mozzarella stuffed meatballs pair wonderfully with various side dishes. For a classic option, serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce. You can also enjoy them in sub sandwiches topped with marinara and melted cheese for a delightful twist. A fresh green salad or garlic bread makes excellent accompaniments too. For a low-carb option, try serving them on zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a nutritious meal.
Conclusion for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs :
Mozzarella stuffed meatballs offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone loves. The combination of juicy ground meat and melted mozzarella creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you bake or fry them, these meatballs are easy to prepare and fun to eat. Plus, they can be stored in the freezer for later enjoyment! Try serving them with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Mozzarella stuffed meatballs are a mouthwatering blend of savory ground beef and gooey mozzarella cheese, encased in a perfectly seasoned exterior. These delightful meatballs are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal dish for family dinners or game nights. Serve them over pasta, in sub sandwiches, or as appetizers at parties, and watch everyone savor each cheesy bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, these mozzarella stuffed meatballs will be the star of the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (cut into small cubes)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Take about two tablespoons of the mixture, flatten it in your palm, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and fold the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture.
- Arrange meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball (55g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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