Description
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a savory twist on the classic, featuring tender meatballs with a gooey, cheesy center. Baked and simmered in marinara sauce, they’re perfect over pasta, in subs, or on their own.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 16 cubes mozzarella cheese (about 1/2-inch each)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- In a large bowl, mix ground meat, garlic, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Flatten a portion of meat mixture in your hand, place a mozzarella cube in the center, and shape the meat around it to seal. Repeat with remaining mixture.
- Place meatballs on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Transfer baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5–10 minutes to absorb flavor.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add crushed red pepper for heat or chopped spinach for veggies.
- Stuff with mini bocconcini or smoked mozzarella for variety.
- Freeze raw or cooked meatballs for future meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3–4 meatballs
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
