Delicious Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy Goodness: Each meatball is a delightful surprise, bursting with gooey mozzarella that melts in your mouth.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lean meats and Italian seasonings creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this dish even on the busiest of weeknights.
• Low Carb Delight: Perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet, these meatballs are satisfying without the guilt!

Introduction

Are you ready to take your dinner game to the next level? Say hello to Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs! Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked meatball, only to discover a warm, gooey center of mozzarella cheese. It’s like a party in your mouth! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a family-friendly meal, or just craving something delicious, these meatballs are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this cheesy, meaty goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground pork
• 0.5 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
• 12 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 small onion, finely chopped
• 14 oz crushed tomatoes, canned
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped
• 1 tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce: In a medium-sized pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about five minutes until it becomes translucent.
2. Add the chopped garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook on low to medium heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Preheat the Oven: While the sauce is simmering, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a half sheet pan with parchment paper.
5. Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, egg, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
6. Take a golf ball-sized portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and carefully shape the meat around the cheese, ensuring it is fully enclosed. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
7. Place the meatballs on the prepared sheet pan and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
8. Serve: Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and serve them hot with the marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra touch of flavor.

Presentation Ideas

These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs can be served in various delightful ways:

• Classic Plate: Serve the meatballs on a bed of spaghetti or zucchini noodles, topped with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Meatball Sub: Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese for a delicious meatball sub sandwich.
• Appetizer Style: Serve the meatballs on toothpicks with a side of marinara for dipping at your next party or gathering.
• Salad Topper: Slice the meatballs and add them to a fresh salad for a protein-packed meal.

Storage and Shelf Life

Leftover Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cheese? Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone.
2. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate or freeze them before baking.
3. What can I serve with these meatballs? They pair well with pasta, salad, or even on their own as an appetizer.
4. Are these meatballs gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure that your seasonings and sauces are gluten-free.
5. Can I bake them instead of frying? Yes, baking is a healthier option and works perfectly for these meatballs.
6. How do I know when the meatballs are done? They should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
7. Can I use ground turkey instead? Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.
8. What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? You can make your own blend using dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
9. Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture? Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can add flavor and moisture.
10. How spicy are these meatballs? They are not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes for a kick if desired.