Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: A Cheesy Delight
These mouthwatering meatballs are a symphony of flavors, combining the savory richness of ground beef with the gooey indulgence of melted mozzarella. A perfect balance of textures and tastes, these meatballs are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or as a topping for your favorite pasta dish, they are a versatile and crowd-pleasing creation.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- Olive oil for greasing the baking sheet
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
- Create the cheesy centers: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the meatball mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and carefully enclose it with the meat mixture, forming a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Bake to perfection: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Tips for Meatball Mastery:
- Flavor enhancement: For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of dried basil to the meatball mixture.
- Size matters: Adjust the baking time accordingly if you prefer larger meatballs. They may require a few extra minutes in the oven to cook thoroughly.
- Cheese control: To prevent the mozzarella from oozing out, ensure the meat is tightly sealed around the cheese. Gently roll the meatballs to create a firm exterior.
- Make-ahead magic: Prepare the meatballs in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Italian: Serve the meatballs with a rich marinara sauce over a bed of spaghetti or rigatoni.
- Elevated appetizer: Arrange the meatballs on toothpicks and offer them as a gourmet appetizer with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as marinara, blue cheese, or balsamic glaze.
- Hearty sandwich: Create a mouthwatering sandwich by placing meatballs on a toasted hoagie roll with provolone cheese, marinara sauce, and fresh basil.
- Salad topper: Add a burst of flavor to your favorite green salad by topping it with warm meatballs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are a culinary delight that combines savory ground beef with gooey, melted cheese. These versatile treats can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or sandwich filling. By following a few simple steps, you can create these delectable meatballs in the comfort of your own kitchen. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more.
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