There’s something truly special about a home-cooked meal that brings everyone together. I can still remember the first time I made these Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs for my family. It was one of those hectic evenings where I wanted to whip up something quick yet satisfying. As soon as I pulled them out of the oven, the aroma filled the kitchen, and the family came rushing in, curious and excited.
Cooking has always been my way of showing love. Each meatball is a little hug, especially when you bite into one and find that gooey mozzarella melted inside. My kids love the surprise in every bite, and my husband always says these meatballs are the highlight of his week. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends. Plus, it’s super easy to follow, making it a great choice for busy nights!
The beauty of these Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs is that you can customize them to fit your family’s taste. You can tweak the herbs or even sneak in some finely chopped veggies if you want. So, let’s get cooking and create some wonderful memories around the dinner table!
How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
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Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Ground beef
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 12 oz Mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 small finely chopped onion
- 14 oz Canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley or basil
- 1 tsp Black pepper
Directions
Start by making the marinara sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about five minutes until it’s soft and translucent.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Reduce the heat and let this mixture simmer while you prepare the meatballs, giving the flavors a chance to meld.
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
Take a golf ball-sized portion of the meat mixture and encase a cube of mozzarella cheese, making sure it’s completely sealed inside. You should have about 12 medium meatballs ready for baking.
Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. Don’t worry if a little cheese escapes; it just adds to the deliciousness!
Once done, serve these delightful meatballs over your simmering marinara sauce, and feel free to garnish with extra parsley or basil for that fresh touch.
Storing Suggestion
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing to maintain their texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips
For a different flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for some heat. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered to reduce excess liquid.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect served over spaghetti or in a sub sandwich with melted cheese on top. Pair them with a side salad and garlic bread for a hearty meal. A glass of red wine or sparkling water complements this dish beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of Italian seasoning, a combination of oregano, thyme, and rosemary works just as well. For those who are lactose intolerant, you can replace mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese option. Also, fresh herbs can be swapped with dried herbs in a pinch, just adjust the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, add finely chopped zucchini or bell peppers to the meat mixture for a fresh twist. In the fall, try using pumpkin puree in the marinara sauce for a unique flavor. During winter, incorporate spices like nutmeg or allspice into the meatballs for warmth.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy and gluten (if using traditional bread crumbs). For gluten-free alternatives, use gluten-free bread crumbs. For dairy-free options, substitute mozzarella with a plant-based cheese. Always check labels for potential allergens if you have food sensitivities.
FAQ
How can I tell when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F. Alternatively, you can cut one open to ensure there is no pink meat inside.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance. Just cover them and store them in the fridge. You can also freeze them and bake when ready to serve.
What should I serve with Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious over pasta, in subs, or served with crusty bread. A fresh salad or steamed vegetables make a great side dish as well.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to get that delightful gooeyness.
How do I store leftover meatballs?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can create your own blend using dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. This will give you a similar flavor profile for your meatballs.
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 oz Mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 0.5 small onion, finely chopped
- 14 oz Canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley or basil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about five minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Let the mixture simmer on low to medium heat for 20 to 30 minutes while preparing the meatballs.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine the ground beef, egg, and seasonings in a large bowl. Shape a golf ball-sized portion of the meat mixture around a cube of mozzarella, ensuring it is fully enclosed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked. Some cheese might leak out, but it should be minimal if the meatballs are well sealed.
- Serve with the homemade marinara sauce and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.
