When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s always been the irresistible allure of Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs. Picture sinking your teeth into a tender meatball, only to discover a gooey, melty surprise inside that oozes with cheesy goodness. creamy dessert option The aroma fills the kitchen, mingling with the rich scent of herbs and spices that dance through the air, promising an explosion of flavor.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What are Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
- How do you make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
- Can I freeze Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
- What dishes pair well with Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
- Conclusion for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs :
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience. I remember the first time I made these meatballs for my family. It was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and we were all huddled together in the kitchen. As I pulled them from the oven, my kids’ eyes widened with anticipation. Little did they know, we were about to transform dinner into a hearty celebration of flavors that would have everyone asking for seconds and maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- These meatballs are so easy to whip up that you’ll impress everyone without breaking a sweat.
- The combination of savory beef and stretchy mozzarella creates a delightful surprise in every bite.
- Plus, they look adorable on a platter you’ll want to snap a photo before they vanish!
Ingredients for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use high-quality ground beef for juicy meatballs; aim for an 80/20 blend for optimal flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: These act as a binder; use Italian-style breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
- Eggs: Just one egg helps bind everything together and adds moisture.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only brightens the dish but also adds freshness.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the taste; adjust according to your preference.
For the Cheese Filling:
- Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella for that gooey texture; cut into small cubes for easy stuffing.
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 spray it with nonstick cooking spray this will help keep those meatballs from sticking like your kids do when asked to help clean their rooms.
Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (yes, get messy) to mix everything until well combined. Remember, this isn’t pottery class; you want it mixed thoroughly!
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Take about two tablespoons of your mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and wrap the meat around it like you’re giving it a cozy blanket hug. Roll it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until you’ve used up all your mixture—this should yield about 12-16 meatballs.
Step 4: Bake Them Up
Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown on top and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when you can smell them all over the house your neighbors might even get curious!
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Once baked to perfection, remove from oven and let them cool slightly (if you can resist). Serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce or just enjoy them solo as a snack we won’t judge! They’re perfect for busy weeknights or fancy dinner parties where you want to show off without actually putting much effort in.
Step 6: Store Leftovers (If There Are Any)
If you somehow manage to have leftovers (doubtful), place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days just reheat them gently in the microwave or back in the oven.
Now you’ve got yourself some scrumptious Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs! Gather around and indulge in this cheesy delight that will surely become a family favorite. Serve with garlic bread or on homemade sandwiches the possibilities are endless! For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.
You Must Know
- Mozzarella stuffed meatballs are not just a dish; they’re a culinary adventure!
- Juicy meatballs bursting with gooey mozzarella cheese are perfect for any occasion.
- Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just indulging yourself, these meatballs will steal the show every time.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve optimal results, start by mixing your ingredients for the meatballs and refrigerating them briefly. While they chill, prepare your marinara sauce. Sear the meatballs until browned, then simmer them in the sauce to infuse flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! Swap out ground beef for turkey or pork for a different flavor. Add herbs like basil or oregano to the meat mixture for an Italian twist. You can also use different cheeses like provolone if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mozzarella stuffed meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the microwave for quick enjoyment without compromising their flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- – Always chill the meatball mixture before forming them; this helps keep their shape during cooking.
– Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs; this ensures even cooking and presentation.
– Don’t skip browning the meatballs first; it adds depth of flavor that elevates your dish.
The first time I served mozzarella stuffed meatballs to friends, they devoured them like they were at an all-you-can-eat buffet! Their delighted faces were priceless and totally made my day.
FAQs :
What are Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
Mozzarella stuffed meatballs are delicious meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella cheese. They are typically made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, herbs, and seasonings. The mozzarella adds a delightful surprise when you bite into them. cheesy beef casserole These meatballs can be served in various ways, such as in marinara sauce over pasta or as appetizers. They are a favorite for family dinners and gatherings due to their rich flavor and cheesy center.
How do you make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
To make mozzarella stuffed meatballs, start by mixing ground meat with breadcrumbs, minced garlic, eggs, and seasonings in a bowl. Form the mixture into small balls, then press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center before sealing it back up. refreshing apple salad Bake or fry the meatballs until cooked through. Serve them with your favorite sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
Can I freeze Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze mozzarella stuffed meatballs! To do this, prepare the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, you can bake them straight from the freezer or thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for quicker cooking.
What dishes pair well with Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
Mozzarella stuffed meatballs pair wonderfully with various dishes. You can serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal. Alternatively, they work great in subs topped with marinara and melted cheese for a hearty sandwich. spaghetti grilled cheese A fresh green salad or garlic bread also complements the richness of the meatballs perfectly.
Conclusion for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs :
Mozzarella stuffed meatballs are a delightful treat that combines savory flavors with gooey cheese inside. Making these meatballs is simple and requires just a few ingredients like ground meat and cheese. They are versatile enough to be served in numerous ways, from pasta dishes to sandwiches. Whether you’re preparing for family dinner or special occasions, these flavorful bites will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy making and sharing this mouthwatering dish!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender meatballs bursting with gooey mozzarella cheese. Each bite delivers a savory explosion of flavor that is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. These delightful meatballs are easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve them over pasta, in hearty subs, or as a delicious snack on their own – everyone will be coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Take about two tablespoons of the mixture, flatten it in your hand, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and wrap the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving over pasta or as standalone snacks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs (130g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
