Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, with a gooey mozzarella center that melts during baking. These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer, served with pasta, or enjoyed in a meatball sub. The combination of flavorful beef, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, all surrounding a cube of mozzarella, makes for a delightful dish that's sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 small onion, grated
• ½ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ⅓ cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons marinara sauce, plus ⅓ cup for serving
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package of ground beef (1.5-2lbs)
• 16 cubed pieces of mozzarella cheese (½ inch cubes)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the grated onion, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian bread crumbs, egg, 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the bowl with the other ingredients. Using your hands, gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 4: Form Meatballs
Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center. Carefully wrap the meat around the cheese, forming a ball. Ensure the cheese is completely enclosed. Repeat with the remaining meat and cheese cubes.

Step 5: Bake Meatballs
Place the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.

Step 6: Serve
Warm the remaining ⅓ cup of marinara sauce in a small saucepan or in the microwave. Serve the baked mozzarella stuffed meatballs with the warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips:

• Serving Suggestions: These meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways—over spaghetti, in a meatball sub sandwich, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
• Freezing: Unbaked meatballs can be frozen for later use. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste. Basil or oregano would also be great additions.

Prep Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Conclusion

Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the classic tastes of Italian cuisine with the fun surprise of melted mozzarella inside. They're sure to become a favorite for family dinners, parties, or any occasion that calls for a tasty and satisfying meal.