Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to delight your taste buds with a dish that’s bound to become a household classic: Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs. Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned meatballs with a heart of oozing mozzarella cheese that melts in your mouth. What’s not to love? This recipe combines the comforting flavors of traditional meatballs with the lusciousness of molten cheese — a match made in culinary heaven! Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these meatballs promise to capture the spotlight and leave everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating delicious Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs is a simple process with essential ingredients that truly shine. Each component brings its own unique flavor, from the savory beef and pork down to the fragrant garlic and fresh parsley. This combination results in a perfectly balanced dish that’s satisfying and flavorful. Let’s dive into the ingredient list to see what makes these meatballs so special.

• Ground Beef and Pork: A blend that’s ideal for tender, flavorful meatballs.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together beautifully.
• Bread Crumbs: Gives the meatballs their perfect texture by absorbing moisture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, salty depth that pairs excellently with mozzarella.
• Minced Garlic: Brings a burst of aromatic flavor, enhancing every bite.
• Chopped Onion: Infuses the meat with a subtle sweetness and texture.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: The classic seasoning combo that highlights all the other flavors.
• Mozzarella: The star of the show, melting deliciously within every meatball.
• Fresh Italian Flat-leaf Parsley: Offers a pop of color and fresh flavor to the mix.
• Marinara Sauce and Spaghetti Noodles: Essential accompaniments for a classic, comforting meal.

Variations

Feeling creative or catering to dietary preferences? Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are incredibly versatile, allowing for endless customization. Whether you’re switching up ingredients or adapting for dietary needs, these variations will keep everyone at the table happy. Let’s explore some exciting ways to put a unique spin on this favorite dish.

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for additional flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish accessible to those avoiding gluten.
• Vegetarian Twist: Substitute with a meat-free ground beef alternative and enjoy a veggie version.

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and give it a quick spray with nonstick spray to ensure that nothing sticks. This preparatory step simplifies the cleanup process and ensures your meatballs bake evenly. By setting up your equipment first, you can focus entirely on crafting the perfect meatball mixture.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix using a wooden spoon or your hands, being cautious not to overmix to keep them tender. If the mixture seems a bit dry, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to reach the desired consistency. This step forms the heart of your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, setting the stage for that flavorful bite.

Step 3: Form and Stuff the Meatballs

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the meat mixture on the baking sheet. Press a cube of mozzarella into the center of each portion and carefully wrap the meat around it, forming sturdy 1½-inch balls. Ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed guarantees a delightful molten center. This step demands some delicate handiwork, but the payoff is worth every moment.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Place your assembled meatballs in the oven, baking them uncovered for 17 to 20 minutes. Turn them halfway through to ensure even cooking, resulting in a golden exterior. Once done, they should no longer be pink in the center, indicating they are ready. These mouthwatering Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are now prepared to grace your dining table or complement other delightful dishes.

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Garnishes

Elevate the presentation with fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color and extra flavor. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan just before serving can also enhance the dish’s savory profile. These simple additions not only add a visual appeal but also a hint of aromatic freshness. Each garnish complements the meatballs beautifully, making them even more mouthwatering.

Side Dishes

Pair these Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs with classic spaghetti for a traditional Italian feast. Alternatively, serve them over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. A crusty garlic bread on the side can perfectly complement the dish. Add a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the meal, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Place the meatballs on skewers for a fun appetizer option at parties. You can also serve them in a simmering marinara sauce in a skillet at the table, inviting guests to scoop their own. For a sophisticated twist, arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces. These creative presentations make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs an ideal choice for gatherings and special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling, place leftover meatballs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days when properly stored. Ensure that the meatballs are completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation. This preserves their texture and flavor, making them just as tasty when reheated.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the meatballs on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents them from sticking together. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, maintaining their deliciousness. Just defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the meatballs in a 350°F oven until warmed through. You can also use a skillet over medium heat or microwave them in short bursts. If reheating with sauce, consider adding a splash of water or stock to maintain moisture. Reheating slowly ensures the cheese remains gooey and delightful.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve made it this far, you must be as excited as I am about these Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs. Once you’ve tried these, they are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Perfect for casual dinners or fancy occasions, they bring a playful yet elegant flair to any meal. So what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

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