Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These juicy mozzarella meatballs are the perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious weeknight meal. They're bursting with cheesy goodness and are guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. This recipe is perfect for beginners looking for easy recipes and seasoned cooks searching for new additions to their homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this fantastic dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 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
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Your favorite pasta sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and gently form it into a ball. Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each meatball and carefully seal the cheese inside. Repeat until all the meat and cheese are used.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet, leaving some space between each one. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
Step 4: Simmer in Sauce
Once the meatballs are browned, pour your favorite pasta sauce over them. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve these delicious mozzarella meatballs over your favorite pasta, alongside a side salad, or simply enjoy them on their own. They're equally satisfying as a main course or a fantastic appetizer.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients just until they are moistened.
- Use high-quality mozzarella: The flavor of the mozzarella cheese will really shine through, so choose a good quality cheese for the best results.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Allowing space between the meatballs ensures even browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and oregano to your preference.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Italian Herb Meatballs: Experiment with other Italian herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary.
- Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses, such as provolone or fontina, instead of mozzarella.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
This recipe is a great example of healthy meals that are quick and easy to prepare. It's a perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. Enjoy the deliciousness!