Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and impressive? Look no further! These stuffed meatballs with mozzarella cheese are the perfect solution. They're surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the burst of melted mozzarella in every bite will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Let's dive into this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 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 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Step 2: Stuff the Meatballs
Form the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Make a small indentation in the center of each meatball and insert a cube of mozzarella cheese. Gently shape the meat around the cheese to completely enclose it.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil (optional) to the pan. Carefully place the stuffed meatballs in the skillet, leaving some space between each one. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Simmer in Marinara Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs in the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are cooked through. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the stuffed meatballs hot, spooned over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in tough meatballs. Gentle mixing is key.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your meatballs will taste.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the meatballs enough space to brown properly. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F (71°C).
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Herb Variations: Add other herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a general estimate, a single meatball may contain roughly 150-200 calories, 10-15g of protein, and 10-15g of fat. This is just an approximation; for precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients. This recipe offers a healthy balance of protein and flavor making it a great addition to your weekly meal plan. These easy recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade meal!