Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese Delight

by
- 1 pound ground beef - 1/2 pound ground pork (or ground turkey for a lighter option) - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes Ground beef and pork (or turkey) make a tasty mix. They give the meatballs a nice flavor. Breadcrumbs help hold everything together. Parmesan cheese adds a salty touch. Garlic, oregano, and basil bring in herbs that lift the taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they boost all the flavors. The star of the show is mozzarella cheese, which melts inside the meatballs. It makes every bite gooey and delicious. - 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving) - Baking sheet lined with parchment paper - Mixing bowl For the sauce, marinara is a great choice. It’s rich and pairs well with meatballs. You can add extra herbs or spices to it if you like. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper helps with easy cleanup. Make sure you have a good mixing bowl to combine all the ingredients well. These tools help you create the perfect stuffed meatballs. You can find the full recipe above to guide you through each step in detail. First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This gives it time to heat up. While the oven warms, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking. Next, grab a large bowl. Mix together 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of ground pork. You can also use turkey if you want a lighter meal. Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss in 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, crack in 1 large egg and mix until everything is combined well. Now it’s time to shape the meatballs. Wet your hands slightly to avoid sticking. Take about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center. Fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully encased. Repeat this until you’ve formed all the meatballs. Space them out on your prepared baking sheet. Slide the sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The meatballs should be brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). While the meatballs bake, pour 1/2 cup of marinara sauce into a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat. When the meatballs are done, carefully add them to the simmering sauce. Let them cook together for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the meatballs soak up the tasty sauce. When serving, plate the meatballs and generously top them with the marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful finish. Enjoy your delicious stuffed meatballs with mozzarella cheese! To make juicy meatballs, you need to keep them moist. Start with a mix of ground beef and ground pork. The pork adds fat, which keeps meatballs tender. Use breadcrumbs and an egg as binding agents. Breadcrumbs soak up moisture and hold the meat together. The egg helps bind everything, so your meatballs stay intact while cooking. Choose fresh mozzarella for your stuffed meatballs. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and gives a gooey texture. Look for cheese that is soft and creamy. If you want to switch things up, try provolone or gouda. Both will melt well and add a new flavor twist. Stuffed meatballs pair well with many sides. Serve them over pasta or with garlic bread. A fresh salad or roasted veggies also work great. For drinks, a bold red wine like Chianti complements the flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section. {{image_4}} You can easily switch up the ground meat in this recipe. Try chicken, lamb, or even plant-based meat. Each choice brings its own flavor and texture. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the bread altogether. Just remember, the binding agents help keep your meatballs together, so choose wisely. To give your meatballs a new twist, add spices or fresh herbs. Try crushed red pepper for heat or fresh parsley for brightness. You can also explore different sauces beyond marinara. Consider a rich alfredo or a zesty pesto for dipping. This will change the whole vibe of the dish while keeping it delicious. Cheese is the star of the show, but you can mix it up. Use provolone or gouda for a different flavor. You can also add extra fillings like sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or herbs. These additions will enhance the taste and make the meatballs even more exciting. Each variation allows you to create a new favorite dish. For the full recipe, check out the details above and start creating your stuffed meatballs today! To store leftover meatballs, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents odors. You can also layer them with marinara sauce to maintain moisture. In the fridge, these meatballs last about 3 to 4 days. Always ensure they cool down completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation. For freezing stuffed meatballs, let them cool first. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Freeze them for about 2 hours until firm. After that, transfer the meatballs to freezer bags. This keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat them directly from the freezer. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. You can also simmer them in marinara sauce on the stove until heated through. This method adds flavor and moisture. For a quick fix, the microwave works too, but be sure to cover them to keep them moist. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section. To check if meatballs are done, measure their internal temperature. A safe temperature is 160°F (70°C). You can also look for visual signs. The meatballs should be brown on the outside and firm to the touch. If juices run clear when you cut one open, they are ready to eat. Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time. Form them and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and freeze them for later. You can also store them in the fridge for up to two days before cooking. Just remember to cook them straight from the freezer or thaw them overnight in the fridge. Stuffed meatballs pair well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Spaghetti or any pasta - Garlic bread for a crunchy side - A fresh green salad for a light touch - Roasted vegetables for added flavor - Rice or polenta for a hearty meal These sides will balance the rich flavors of the meatballs. Enjoy trying different combinations! For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section. This post covered how to make delicious stuffed meatballs. You learned about key ingredients and the best kitchen tools. I gave you easy steps for mixing, forming, and baking. Plus, we discussed tips for great texture and how to serve. Even with all these tips, experiment with your flavors. Change cheeses or use different meats. Your stuffed meatballs can become your signature dish. Enjoy cooking, and enjoy sharing this meal with others!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m excited to share my favorite recipe: Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese! These juicy meatballs are packed with gooey cheese and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this easy step-by-step guide will help you impress your family and friends. Get ready to make a meal that’s sure to delight everyone at the table!

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef

– 1/2 pound ground pork (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

– 1 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

Ground beef and pork (or turkey) make a tasty mix. They give the meatballs a nice flavor. Breadcrumbs help hold everything together. Parmesan cheese adds a salty touch. Garlic, oregano, and basil bring in herbs that lift the taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they boost all the flavors. The star of the show is mozzarella cheese, which melts inside the meatballs. It makes every bite gooey and delicious.

Cooking Essentials

– 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)

– Baking sheet lined with parchment paper

– Mixing bowl

For the sauce, marinara is a great choice. It’s rich and pairs well with meatballs. You can add extra herbs or spices to it if you like. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper helps with easy cleanup. Make sure you have a good mixing bowl to combine all the ingredients well. These tools help you create the perfect stuffed meatballs.

You can find the full recipe above to guide you through each step in detail.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Meat Mixture

First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This gives it time to heat up. While the oven warms, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking. Next, grab a large bowl. Mix together 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of ground pork. You can also use turkey if you want a lighter meal. Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss in 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, crack in 1 large egg and mix until everything is combined well.

Forming and Baking the Meatballs

Now it’s time to shape the meatballs. Wet your hands slightly to avoid sticking. Take about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center. Fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully encased. Repeat this until you’ve formed all the meatballs. Space them out on your prepared baking sheet. Slide the sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The meatballs should be brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Finishing Touches

While the meatballs bake, pour 1/2 cup of marinara sauce into a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat. When the meatballs are done, carefully add them to the simmering sauce. Let them cook together for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the meatballs soak up the tasty sauce. When serving, plate the meatballs and generously top them with the marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful finish. Enjoy your delicious stuffed meatballs with mozzarella cheese!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Meatball Texture

To make juicy meatballs, you need to keep them moist. Start with a mix of ground beef and ground pork. The pork adds fat, which keeps meatballs tender. Use breadcrumbs and an egg as binding agents. Breadcrumbs soak up moisture and hold the meat together. The egg helps bind everything, so your meatballs stay intact while cooking.

Cheese Tips

Choose fresh mozzarella for your stuffed meatballs. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and gives a gooey texture. Look for cheese that is soft and creamy. If you want to switch things up, try provolone or gouda. Both will melt well and add a new flavor twist.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Stuffed meatballs pair well with many sides. Serve them over pasta or with garlic bread. A fresh salad or roasted veggies also work great. For drinks, a bold red wine like Chianti complements the flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily switch up the ground meat in this recipe. Try chicken, lamb, or even plant-based meat. Each choice brings its own flavor and texture. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the bread altogether. Just remember, the binding agents help keep your meatballs together, so choose wisely.

Flavor Enhancements

To give your meatballs a new twist, add spices or fresh herbs. Try crushed red pepper for heat or fresh parsley for brightness. You can also explore different sauces beyond marinara. Consider a rich alfredo or a zesty pesto for dipping. This will change the whole vibe of the dish while keeping it delicious.

Stuffing Variations

Cheese is the star of the show, but you can mix it up. Use provolone or gouda for a different flavor. You can also add extra fillings like sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or herbs. These additions will enhance the taste and make the meatballs even more exciting. Each variation allows you to create a new favorite dish.

For the full recipe, check out the details above and start creating your stuffed meatballs today!

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftover meatballs, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents odors. You can also layer them with marinara sauce to maintain moisture. In the fridge, these meatballs last about 3 to 4 days. Always ensure they cool down completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing Meatballs

For freezing stuffed meatballs, let them cool first. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Freeze them for about 2 hours until firm. After that, transfer the meatballs to freezer bags. This keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat them directly from the freezer.

To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. You can also simmer them in marinara sauce on the stove until heated through. This method adds flavor and moisture. For a quick fix, the microwave works too, but be sure to cover them to keep them moist.

For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section.

FAQs

How do I know when meatballs are fully cooked?

To check if meatballs are done, measure their internal temperature. A safe temperature is 160°F (70°C). You can also look for visual signs. The meatballs should be brown on the outside and firm to the touch. If juices run clear when you cut one open, they are ready to eat.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time. Form them and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and freeze them for later. You can also store them in the fridge for up to two days before cooking. Just remember to cook them straight from the freezer or thaw them overnight in the fridge.

What can I serve with stuffed meatballs?

Stuffed meatballs pair well with many sides. Here are some great options:

– Spaghetti or any pasta

– Garlic bread for a crunchy side

– A fresh green salad for a light touch

– Roasted vegetables for added flavor

– Rice or polenta for a hearty meal

These sides will balance the rich flavors of the meatballs. Enjoy trying different combinations! For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section.

This post covered how to make delicious stuffed meatballs. You learned about key ingredients and the best kitchen tools. I gave you easy steps for mixing, forming, and baking. Plus, we discussed tips for great texture and how to serve.

Even with all these tips, experiment with your flavors. Change cheeses or use different meats. Your stuffed meatballs can become your signature dish. Enjoy cooking, and enjoy sharing this meal with others!

- 1 pound ground beef - 1/2 pound ground pork (or ground turkey for a lighter option) - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes Ground beef and pork (or turkey) make a tasty mix. They give the meatballs a nice flavor. Breadcrumbs help hold everything together. Parmesan cheese adds a salty touch. Garlic, oregano, and basil bring in herbs that lift the taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they boost all the flavors. The star of the show is mozzarella cheese, which melts inside the meatballs. It makes every bite gooey and delicious. - 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving) - Baking sheet lined with parchment paper - Mixing bowl For the sauce, marinara is a great choice. It’s rich and pairs well with meatballs. You can add extra herbs or spices to it if you like. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper helps with easy cleanup. Make sure you have a good mixing bowl to combine all the ingredients well. These tools help you create the perfect stuffed meatballs. You can find the full recipe above to guide you through each step in detail. First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This gives it time to heat up. While the oven warms, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking. Next, grab a large bowl. Mix together 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of ground pork. You can also use turkey if you want a lighter meal. Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss in 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, crack in 1 large egg and mix until everything is combined well. Now it’s time to shape the meatballs. Wet your hands slightly to avoid sticking. Take about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center. Fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully encased. Repeat this until you’ve formed all the meatballs. Space them out on your prepared baking sheet. Slide the sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The meatballs should be brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). While the meatballs bake, pour 1/2 cup of marinara sauce into a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat. When the meatballs are done, carefully add them to the simmering sauce. Let them cook together for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the meatballs soak up the tasty sauce. When serving, plate the meatballs and generously top them with the marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful finish. Enjoy your delicious stuffed meatballs with mozzarella cheese! To make juicy meatballs, you need to keep them moist. Start with a mix of ground beef and ground pork. The pork adds fat, which keeps meatballs tender. Use breadcrumbs and an egg as binding agents. Breadcrumbs soak up moisture and hold the meat together. The egg helps bind everything, so your meatballs stay intact while cooking. Choose fresh mozzarella for your stuffed meatballs. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and gives a gooey texture. Look for cheese that is soft and creamy. If you want to switch things up, try provolone or gouda. Both will melt well and add a new flavor twist. Stuffed meatballs pair well with many sides. Serve them over pasta or with garlic bread. A fresh salad or roasted veggies also work great. For drinks, a bold red wine like Chianti complements the flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section. {{image_4}} You can easily switch up the ground meat in this recipe. Try chicken, lamb, or even plant-based meat. Each choice brings its own flavor and texture. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the bread altogether. Just remember, the binding agents help keep your meatballs together, so choose wisely. To give your meatballs a new twist, add spices or fresh herbs. Try crushed red pepper for heat or fresh parsley for brightness. You can also explore different sauces beyond marinara. Consider a rich alfredo or a zesty pesto for dipping. This will change the whole vibe of the dish while keeping it delicious. Cheese is the star of the show, but you can mix it up. Use provolone or gouda for a different flavor. You can also add extra fillings like sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or herbs. These additions will enhance the taste and make the meatballs even more exciting. Each variation allows you to create a new favorite dish. For the full recipe, check out the details above and start creating your stuffed meatballs today! To store leftover meatballs, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents odors. You can also layer them with marinara sauce to maintain moisture. In the fridge, these meatballs last about 3 to 4 days. Always ensure they cool down completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation. For freezing stuffed meatballs, let them cool first. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Freeze them for about 2 hours until firm. After that, transfer the meatballs to freezer bags. This keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat them directly from the freezer. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. You can also simmer them in marinara sauce on the stove until heated through. This method adds flavor and moisture. For a quick fix, the microwave works too, but be sure to cover them to keep them moist. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section. To check if meatballs are done, measure their internal temperature. A safe temperature is 160°F (70°C). You can also look for visual signs. The meatballs should be brown on the outside and firm to the touch. If juices run clear when you cut one open, they are ready to eat. Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time. Form them and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and freeze them for later. You can also store them in the fridge for up to two days before cooking. Just remember to cook them straight from the freezer or thaw them overnight in the fridge. Stuffed meatballs pair well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Spaghetti or any pasta - Garlic bread for a crunchy side - A fresh green salad for a light touch - Roasted vegetables for added flavor - Rice or polenta for a hearty meal These sides will balance the rich flavors of the meatballs. Enjoy trying different combinations! For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section. This post covered how to make delicious stuffed meatballs. You learned about key ingredients and the best kitchen tools. I gave you easy steps for mixing, forming, and baking. Plus, we discussed tips for great texture and how to serve. Even with all these tips, experiment with your flavors. Change cheeses or use different meats. Your stuffed meatballs can become your signature dish. Enjoy cooking, and enjoy sharing this meal with others!

Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese

Delight your family with these cheesy stuffed meatballs that combine rich flavors and gooey mozzarella in each bite. This easy recipe is perfect for dinner or a fun gathering, featuring ground beef, pork, and aromatic herbs. Follow our step-by-step instructions to create mouthwatering meatballs that simmer in marinara sauce and are garnished with fresh basil. Click through to explore the full recipe and make mealtime magical!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef

1/2 pound ground pork (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)

8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

1 large egg

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

    Mix the Meat: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Crack in the egg and blend all the ingredients together until you achieve a uniform mixture.

      Form the Meatballs: With slightly moistened hands, take approximately one tablespoon of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of the flattened meat. Carefully encase the cheese by folding the meat around it to form a perfect ball. Repeat this process until all of the meat mixture is formed into meatballs, spacing them out on the prepared baking sheet.

        Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are nicely browned and fully cooked (an internal temperature of 160°F or 70°C is ideal).

          Simmer in Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, pour the marinara sauce into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Once the meatballs are done, gently transfer them into the simmering sauce. Let them cook together for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to soak up the delicious flavors of the sauce.

            Serve: For a beautiful presentation, plate the meatballs and top them generously with the marinara sauce. Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your cheesy, flavorful meatballs!

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

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