Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs take classic meatballs to the next level! With tender and juicy beef surrounding a melty cheese center, these meatballs are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a hearty family dinner, you’ll love how easy it is to make these delicious bites. Their versatility allows them to shine as an appetizer or a main dish served over spaghetti.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can create this dish effortlessly.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of herbs and gooey mozzarella ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer with marinara for dipping or over spaghetti for a filling meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze well, making them great for quick weeknight dinners.
• Crowd Pleaser: Everyone loves meatballs! They are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking sheet: Provides even cooking space for your meatballs, ensuring they brown nicely.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl ensures ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
• Saucepan: Perfect for heating up marinara sauce while keeping the meatballs warm.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ¼ cup Italian bread crumbs
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (pre-grated from the jar)
• ¼ cup yellow onion (minced, about ¼ small onion)
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced, about 2 cloves)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (diced into ½ inch pieces)

For Serving

• Marinara sauce
• Spaghetti noodles

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. 1 pound lean ground beef
2. ¼ cup Italian bread crumbs
3. ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
4. ¼ cup minced yellow onion
5. 2 teaspoons minced garlic
6. 1 egg
7. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
8. 1 teaspoon dried basil
9. 1 teaspoon salt
10. ½ teaspoon pepper

Mix everything together until just combined; don’t overmix.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Take about 1 ½ tablespoons of the meatball mixture in your hand and shape it into a ball.
– Insert one piece of diced mozzarella cheese into the center of each ball.
– Continue forming the meatball around the cheese until sealed completely. Aim for each meatball to be approximately 1 inch in diameter.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Place your formed meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet.
– Once all meatballs are arranged, bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.
– Remember to flip halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

While the meatballs bake, cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 6: Combine with Marinara Sauce

Once baked, remove meatballs from the oven. In a large saucepan or pot:
– Add baked meatballs and marinara sauce.
– Cook over medium-high heat until heated evenly and all meatballs are coated in sauce.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Remove from heat and serve hot with spaghetti noodles on plates or in bowls. Enjoy your flavorful Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs!

This recipe not only satisfies cravings but also brings joy and warmth to any table setting!

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want a hearty meal or a delightful appetizer, here are some serving suggestions.

With Spaghetti Noodles

• A classic pairing that never goes out of style. Toss the meatballs with marinara sauce and serve over al dente spaghetti for a comforting meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs on skewers with toothpicks for easy eating. This makes them perfect for parties and gatherings where guests can grab and enjoy them.

In a Meatball Sub

• Place the meatballs in a crusty sub roll, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese for a delicious sandwich option.

Over Rice

• For a lighter alternative, serve the meatballs over fluffy rice. Drizzle with marinara sauce for added flavor.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair your meatballs with slices of garlic bread. This adds a crunchy texture and complements the flavors beautifully.

In a Salad

• Add sliced mozzarella stuffed meatballs to a fresh salad. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

How to Perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Creating the perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Choose lean meat: Using lean ground beef helps keep the meatballs tender without excess fat that can make them greasy.
• Don’t overmix: Combine ingredients until just blended. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
• Chill before baking: If time allows, chill formed meatballs for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh oregano and basil enhance flavor more than dried versions. Consider using them if available.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well with rich meatball flavors.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious option that adds color and crunch to the plate.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan cheese and croutons adds freshness alongside hearty meatballs.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection bring out natural sweetness and complement the savory meatballs.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles topped with marinara sauce alongside your meatballs.
6. Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a smooth base that contrasts nicely with the meaty texture of the stuffed meatballs.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the dish.
8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs is an excellent way to soak up any extra sauce from the meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping Cheese Quality: Using low-quality mozzarella can lead to less gooeyness. Always choose fresh mozzarella for the best melting experience.
• Overmixing the Meat: Mixing too aggressively can make meatballs tough. Combine ingredients gently until just mixed to maintain tenderness.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season the meat mixture can result in bland meatballs. Ensure you add enough salt and spices for flavor.
• Incorrect Baking Time: Baking for too long can dry out the meatballs. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they are golden brown and cooked through.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Placing meatballs directly on the baking sheet can cause sticking. Always line your sheet with parchment for easy removal.

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Allow meatballs to cool before sealing them in containers.

Freezing Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

• item Freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• item They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place meatballs on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
• item Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• item Stovetop: Simmer in marinara sauce over medium heat until heated, which helps retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are delicious beef meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, perfect for serving as appetizers or over pasta.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well too! It will create a lighter version of these flavorful meatballs while still being tasty.

How do I know when my meatballs are done?

Meatballs should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.

Can I customize the filling inside?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or even add herbs like parsley or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs elevate any meal with their juicy texture and melty interior. Perfect as a party appetizer or served with spaghetti, this recipe is versatile. Customize it with your favorite herbs or cheeses for a personal twist!

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