Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs take classic meatballs to the next level! With tender and juicy ground beef encasing melty mozzarella cheese, these flavorful meatballs are perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering or over spaghetti noodles for a hearty family meal, they are sure to impress. The unique blend of spices and gooey cheese makes every bite incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices enhances the meat, making each meatball burst with flavor.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, with marinara sauce, or over your favorite pasta for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These meatballs are a hit among both kids and adults, making them ideal for parties or family dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Saucepan

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheet: Helps in even cooking of the meatballs while keeping your oven clean with parchment paper.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when preparing the mozzarella cheese and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ¼ cup Italian bread crumbs
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (pre-grated from the jar)
• ¼ cup yellow onion (minced, about ¼ small onion)
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced, about 2 cloves)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (diced into ½ inch pieces)

For Serving

• Marinara sauce
• Spaghetti noodles

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef.
2. Mix in ¼ cup Italian bread crumbs.
3. Include ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese.
4. Add ¼ cup minced yellow onion and 2 teaspoons minced garlic.
5. Crack in 1 egg and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil.
6. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.
7. Mix everything until just combined.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Take about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture in your hand:
1. Shape it into a ball.
2. Insert one piece of diced mozzarella cheese into the center.
3. Seal the meat around the cheese to form a complete ball about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Place all formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet:
1. Bake for about 15–20 minutes until cooked through, flipping halfway for even browning.

Step 5: Cook Spaghetti Noodles

While baking, cook spaghetti noodles according to package directions:
1. Drain once cooked and set aside.

Step 6: Combine with Marinara Sauce

In a large saucepan or pot:
1. Add baked meatballs along with marinara sauce.
2. Cook over medium-high heat until heated evenly.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat:
Serve the meatballs coated in sauce over spaghetti noodles for a delicious meal! Enjoy your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs!

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a cozy family dinner, these meatballs can elevate any meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
• Pair with marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor.

Over Spaghetti

• Place the meatballs atop a bed of spaghetti noodles.
• Drizzle with extra marinara sauce for a classic Italian dish.

In a Submarine Sandwich

• Stuff meatballs into a fresh sub roll.
• Top with melted cheese and additional marinara for a filling sandwich.

With Zucchini Noodles

• For a low-carb option, serve over spiralized zucchini noodles.
• Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor.

On a Salad

• Toss cooked meatballs onto a bed of greens.
• Complement with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing.

As Meal Prep

• Store cooked meatballs in airtight containers.
• Pair with different sides throughout the week for quick meals.

How to Perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Perfecting your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality ground beef make all the difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients gently to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
• Chill Before Baking: Allow formed meatballs to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices like crushed red pepper or chopped parsley for unique flavors.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve your mozzarella stuffed meatballs right after cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful options that go well with this dish.

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread complements the saucy meatballs perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine lettuce and creamy dressing balances the richness of the meatballs.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted till tender add color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy touch while contrasting flavors nicely.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf provides a neutral base that works well with marinara sauce.
6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are comforting and pair beautifully with savory meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for perfect meatballs every time.

• Skipping the cheese quality: Using low-quality mozzarella can lead to a rubbery texture. Choose fresh mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
• Not mixing thoroughly: Failing to mix the meatball ingredients well can result in uneven texture and flavor. Mix until just combined for the best results.
• Overbaking: Cooking meatballs too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are cooked through but still juicy.
• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning enough can lead to bland meatballs. Taste your mixture before forming the balls and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Using too much filler: Adding excessive breadcrumbs can make meatballs dense. Stick to the measurement for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow meatballs to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Simmer gently in marinara sauce over medium heat until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ensure my Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs stay moist?

To keep your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients and do not overbake them. Use lean ground beef but not too lean; some fat helps keep them juicy.

Can I make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them for later use.

What type of mozzarella is best for stuffing meatballs?

Fresh mozzarella is ideal because it melts beautifully, adding gooeyness inside the meatball. However, you can also use part-skim mozzarella if fresh is unavailable.

Can I customize my Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. You can also use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a delicious and versatile dish that appeals to all ages. They can be served as appetizers or as part of a hearty meal with pasta. Experiment with different herbs or sauces to make this recipe your own!

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