Introduction
Get ready to elevate your meatball game with this irresistible recipe for baked mozzarella stuffed meatballs. Bursting with flavor and oozing with melted cheese, these meatballs are a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a hearty dinner, or a comforting meal, these cheesy delights are guaranteed to be a hit. So, let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these mouthwatering meatballs!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small mozzarella cheese balls (or cubed mozzarella cheese)
– Marinara sauce, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
video instructions available below 👇
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients together until well combined.
3. Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a mozzarella cheese ball in the center of the flattened meat and carefully fold the meat around the cheese, forming it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is completely encased by the meat mixture.
4. Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for even cooking.
5. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the center of a meatball – it should register 160°F (71°C).
6. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. To serve, arrange the baked mozzarella stuffed meatballs on a platter and drizzle them with marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor, if desired.
8. Enjoy your cheesy delights hot out of the oven, and watch as the gooey mozzarella cheese melts with each delicious bite!
Conclusion
With their tender meaty exterior and gooey cheese center, these baked mozzarella stuffed meatballs are sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, these cheesy delights are the perfect option. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering recipe. Buon appetito!
