Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a delightful dinner option that everyone can enjoy! This easy recipe brings juicy meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, simmered in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, these meatballs are not only packed with flavor but also quick to prepare. Serve them over spaghetti for a comforting dish that will satisfy your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: Enjoy a delicious dinner in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of fresh mozzarella and herbs creates meatballs that burst with flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over pasta, in sub sandwiches, or on their own for various meal options.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy surprise inside each meatball.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with ground beef and fresh herbs, this dish provides nourishment without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Non-stick pan
- Cooking spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps you chop vegetables quickly and safely, saving time during prep.
- Non-stick pan: This prevents the meatballs from sticking while cooking, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
To make your delicious Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, gather these ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, diced finely
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 tsp basil, dried
- 1/2 tsp oregano, dried
- 1/2 tsp salt
- pepper
How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, egg, finely diced onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Combine thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed.
Step 2: Cut the Mozzarella
Cut the fresh mozzarella cheese into cubes about 1/2 inch in size. This will be the cheesy surprise inside each meatball.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Take about 2 tablespoons of the meatball mixture. Flatten it slightly in your hands. Place a mozzarella cube in the center and wrap the meat around it to form a ball. Continue until you have formed approximately 12 meatballs.
Step 4: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium to high heat. Add the formed meatballs to the pan. Brown one side for about 3 minutes before carefully flipping to brown the other side.
Step 5: Simmer in Marinara Sauce
Once both sides of the meatballs are browned nicely, pour marinara sauce over them. Cover all the meatballs with sauce and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs over cooked spaghetti or any pasta of your choice. Top with fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese for added flavor. Enjoy this hearty dish!
How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
Over Spaghetti
- Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti, allowing the marinara sauce to coat the pasta for a classic Italian meal.
With Garlic Bread
- Pair these meatballs with garlic bread for a crunchy texture that complements the juicy meatballs beautifully.
On a Sub Roll
- Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, top with extra marinara and cheese, then melt under a broiler for a hearty sandwich.
As an Appetizer
- Serve small meatballs on toothpicks with marinara sauce for dipping, making them perfect for parties or gatherings.
With Salad
- Accompany your meatballs with a fresh green salad; the crispness balances the richness of the meatballs.
How to Perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Creating the perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.
- Choose Quality Meat: Using high-quality ground beef will yield juicier and more flavorful meatballs.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just enough to combine. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Chill Before Cooking: For better shape retention, chill the formed meatballs in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic add vibrant flavors that dried alternatives can’t match.
- Cook Evenly: Flip your meatballs gently while browning to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
- Simmer Gently: Letting them simmer in marinara allows the flavors to meld beautifully without drying out.
Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Pairing side dishes with Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil adds color and nutrition.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed in Caesar dressing complements the rich flavors of meatballs perfectly.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles as a fresh alternative to pasta.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto offers a luxurious pairing that enhances any Italian dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds health benefits and balances out the meal’s richness.
- Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter featuring olives, cheeses, and cured meats for an appetizer-style side.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a hearty base that pairs nicely with savory meat sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Using too much filler: Adding excessive breadcrumbs or cheese can make your meatballs dry and dense. Stick to the recommended amounts for optimal texture.
- Not browning the meatballs: Skipping the browning step can result in less flavor. Ensure you brown the meatballs on both sides for a delicious crust.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many meatballs in the pan will lower the heat and steam them instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your mixture before cooking. If it’s bland, add more salt, herbs, or spices to enhance flavor.
- Ignoring resting time: Letting your cooked meatballs rest allows flavors to meld. Serve immediately for best results, but don’t skip this step if you can wait.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Add meatballs to a skillet with a bit of marinara sauce. Heat over medium until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef in this recipe. Adjust seasoning as needed since poultry is milder.
What type of mozzarella should I use?
Fresh mozzarella is recommended for its creaminess and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded varieties as they may not melt as well.
How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?
The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C). You can also cut one open to check that it’s no longer pink inside.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and refrigerate it overnight before cooking. This enhances the flavor!
Final Thoughts
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a delightful dinner option that’s both easy and satisfying. Their cheesy center adds an irresistible touch that everyone will love. Feel free to customize them with different herbs or spices based on your preferences!
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (12 meatballs total) 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. These juicy meatballs are filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and simmered in a rich marinara sauce, making them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Easy to prepare in under 45 minutes, this recipe offers versatility—serve them over spaghetti, in sub sandwiches, or as an appetizer. With fresh herbs and quality ingredients, these meatballs are not just delicious but also provide a wholesome meal that satisfies everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Olive oil
- basil
- oregano
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper until mixed.
- Cut mozzarella into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Form meatballs by taking about 2 tablespoons of the mixture; flatten slightly and place a mozzarella cube in the center. Wrap the mixture around the cheese to form a ball.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs on all sides.
- Pour marinara sauce over the browned meatballs and simmer for about 10 minutes until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
