Cheesy Mozzarella Delight Meatballs

$- 1 pound ground beef - 1/2 pound ground pork (optional) - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup marinara sauce - Fresh basil leaves - Salt and pepper to taste These ingredients create a rich flavor in your mozzarella stuffed meatballs. Ground beef is the main star, making the meatballs juicy and tender. Adding ground pork gives a nice flavor boost, but you can skip it if you prefer. Breadcrumbs help bind everything together, giving you that perfect texture. The mozzarella cheese is the best part. When you bite into the meatball, the gooey cheese oozes out, creating a delightful surprise. Use fresh mozzarella for the best results. Garlic, oregano, and basil add a nice Italian touch. Parmesan cheese rounds off the flavor nicely, adding depth. Don’t forget the marinara sauce! It ties everything together when you serve the meatballs. For garnishes, fresh basil leaves add brightness and color to your dish. Salt and pepper enhance the flavors, so season to your taste. With these ingredients, you will create a dish that’s both easy and delicious. {{ingredient_image_1}} In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you blend all the ingredients. You want a smooth, even mixture. Use your hands to mix. This helps break up any lumps and ensures even flavor throughout. Next, take a portion of the meat mixture, about 2 tablespoons. Flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat this until you use all the mixture. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through. While the meatballs bake, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs are done, gently add them to the warm sauce. Let them simmer for 5 minutes. This helps the meatballs soak up the sauce. Serve the cheesy meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy the burst of flavor! To keep the cheese melted and gooey, choose fresh mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella stretches better than pre-shredded cheese. Cut the cheese into small cubes, about one inch. This size melts well inside the meatballs. Avoid overcooking the meatballs. They should bake just until golden brown. If you cook them too long, the cheese can leak out. For a golden crust, use a hot oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet without crowding them. This helps with even cooking. If you have multiple trays, place one in the middle and one on top. Rotate the trays halfway through cooking for the best color. Pair these meatballs with pasta or garlic bread for a hearty meal. A simple salad adds freshness. Serve the warm marinara sauce either on the side or under the meatballs. This keeps them moist and flavorful. Garnish with fresh basil for a nice touch. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano can elevate the flavor profile of your meatballs compared to dried herbs. Mix Meats for Flavor: Combining ground beef with ground pork adds depth and a richer taste to your meatballs. Rest Before Serving: Letting the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier bite. Experiment with Cheese: Try using different types of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist on traditional mozzarella meatballs. {{image_2}} You can easily swap out ground beef for other meats. Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a richer flavor, use lamb. You can also go fully plant-based with ground meat alternatives, like lentils or chickpeas. For breadcrumbs, use gluten-free options if needed. Crushed gluten-free crackers work well. You can also use cornmeal or ground oats to bind your meatballs while keeping them gluten-free. Add fresh herbs to boost flavor. Chopped parsley or cilantro can brighten the dish. You might also try adding spices like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a kick. Incorporate vegetables for extra nutrition. Finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms mix in well. Just make sure to adjust the moisture, so your meatballs hold their shape. Using a slow cooker is a great option. Shape your meatballs and place them in the slow cooker. Pour marinara sauce over them and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method keeps them tender and full of flavor. If you own an air fryer, you can cook your meatballs in just 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This gives them a nice crispy outside while keeping the inside gooey and cheesy. After cooking your mozzarella stuffed meatballs, let them cool down. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Stored this way, they last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. If you want to store them longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Freeze them for a few hours until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, take out the meatballs and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. You can also warm them in marinara sauce on the stove for a nice, saucy finish. Mozzarella stuffed meatballs make meal prep easy and fun. You can cook a big batch on the weekend. Store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals. Pair them with pasta, rice, or veggies for a full dish. You can also prep them uncooked. Shape the meatballs and freeze them. This lets you bake fresh meatballs anytime you want. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if they are still frozen! Yes, you can try different cheeses! Here are some tasty options: - Cheddar: Sharp flavor and melts well. - Provolone: Nice smokiness and stretchy texture. - Gouda: Creamy and rich, adds a unique taste. - Fontina: Soft, melts nicely for a gooey center. These cheeses work great if you want a twist on the classic mozzarella stuffed meatballs. Just remember to cut them into small cubes, like you would with mozzarella. The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for cooked meatballs is 160°F (71°C). You can also cut one open; the center should not be pink, and juices should run clear. Cooking them until they are golden brown on the outside also means they are likely done. This ensures they are both safe to eat and delicious! You have lots of tasty choices! Here are some great sides: - Spaghetti: A classic pairing with marinara sauce. - Garlic bread: Perfect for dipping in sauce. - Salad: A fresh green salad adds crunch. - Zucchini noodles: A low-carb option that’s light and healthy. - Roasted vegetables: Adds color and flavor to your meal. These sides will help balance the rich flavors of the meatballs and make your meal even more enjoyable! You learned how to make delicious mozzarella-stuffed meatballs, from choosing the right ingredients to cooking and storage. Each step helps you create a tasty meal. Don't forget tips for gooey cheese and cooking methods. Feel free to try variations that suit your taste. With proper storage, you can enjoy them later. Cooking can be fun and rewarding. Enjoy your meatballs with your favorite sides and share with friends!$

Cheesy Mozzarella Delight Meatballs

Delicious meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, served in marinara sauce.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
0.5 pound ground pork (optional, can be replaced with more beef)
1 cup breadcrumbs
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
to taste Salt and pepper
1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (about 1-inch pieces)
as needed Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Take a portion of the meat mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and fold the meat around the cheese, rolling it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, placing the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warm.
Once the meatballs are cooked, gently add them to the warm marinara sauce and let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve the cheesy meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Notes

Ground pork is optional and can be replaced with more ground beef.

Keyword cheese, Italian, meatballs