Description
These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food. Tender, juicy meatballs stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, baked to perfection and served with marinara sauce. Ideal for pasta dishes, sub sandwiches, or enjoyed on their own, these meatballs are guaranteed to satisfy your craving for something cheesy and delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 oz (115g) fresh mozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
For the Tomato Sauce (optional):
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If making tomato sauce, begin by simmering the ingredients (crushed tomatoes, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper) in a saucepan on low heat. - Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender. - Stuff and Shape the Meatballs
Take a small portion of the meatball mixture (about 1 tablespoon), flatten it in your hand, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Gently wrap the meat around the cheese, ensuring it’s fully enclosed. Roll into a ball and repeat with the remaining mixture. - Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even browning. - Bake the Meatballs
Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). - Serve
Serve the meatballs with your prepared tomato sauce or enjoy them on their own. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and color.
Notes
- For a lighter option, you can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Freezing tip: You can make extra meatballs and freeze them for later. After baking, let the meatballs cool, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Sauce tip: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can serve the meatballs with a rich alfredo sauce instead of marinara.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg