Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Name: Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small onion, grated; 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped; 2/3 cup grated Parmesan Cheese; 1/3 cup Italian bread crumbs; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons marinara sauce plus 1/3 cup; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pinch of crushed red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 package of ground beef (1.5-2lbs); 16 cubed pieces of mozzarella cheese (1/2 inch cubes)

Isabella

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Who can resist the allure of juicy, flavorful meatballs oozing with molten mozzarella? This recipe for Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs promises to tantalize your taste buds with its perfect blend of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese. Easy to make and even easier to devour, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite in no time!

Ingredients:

1 small onion, grated

1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

2/3 cup grated Parmesan Cheese

1/3 cup Italian bread crumbs

1 large egg

2 tablespoons marinara sauce plus 1/3 cup

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

Salt and pepper to taste

1 package of ground beef (1.5-2lbs)

16 cubed pieces of mozzarella cheese (1/2 inch cubes)

Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Position the oven rack in the lower 1/3 of the oven for even cooking. Grease a baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.

Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated onion, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian bread crumbs, large egg, 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Form the Meatballs: Add the ground beef to the mixture and mix it thoroughly with your hands until everything is well combined. Shape the meat mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs.

Stuff with Mozzarella: Using your thumb, make a hole in the center of each meatball. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese inside the hole, and then carefully seal the meat around the cheese, ensuring it’s completely enclosed within the meatball.

Prepare the Baking Dish: Spoon 1/3 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the stuffed meatballs in the dish, leaving some space between them.

Bake to Perfection: Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the meatballs for added flavor and moisture. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted and gooey.

Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. These Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are perfect as a main course served with pasta or as a tasty appetizer for any occasion!

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Serving and Storage Tips for Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs:

Serving Tips:

Presentation Matters: Serve the meatballs on a platter with a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the presentation.
Accompaniments: These meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a hearty meal, serve them over a bed of freshly cooked pasta, spaghetti squash, or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. A simple side salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar can balance the richness of the meatballs.

Wine Pairing: Complement your meal with a glass of red wine. A medium-bodied Chianti or Merlot will pair well with the savory flavors of the meatballs and the tanginess of the marinara sauce.
For Appetizers: If serving as an appetizer, provide toothpicks for easy handling. You can also set up a small buffet with other finger foods for guests to enjoy.

Storage Tips:

Cooling Down: Allow the meatballs to cool to room temperature before storing them to prevent condensation inside the storage container, which could make them soggy.

Refrigeration: Place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed properly to maintain freshness and prevent the meatballs from absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
Freezing: For longer storage, the meatballs can be frozen. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This method prevents the meatballs from sticking together, making it easier to thaw only the amount you need.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, the meatballs can be reheated in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until they are heated through. If they were frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first; just adjust the heating time accordingly. For a moist result, consider covering them with foil while reheating to prevent drying out. Alternatively, they can be reheated gently in a saucepan with marinara sauce, which adds moisture and flavor.

Additional Tips:

Sauce on the Side: If you have leftover marinara sauce, warm it up and serve it on the side for dipping. This is especially appealing if the meatballs are served as an appetizer.
Herb Refresh: Freshen up the dish before serving by sprinkling some fresh herbs over the meatballs. Even if they’ve been refrigerated or frozen, this can make them taste just-cooked.
Cheese Topping: For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle some grated cheese over the meatballs before reheating them. The cheese will melt and add an additional layer of flavor.

By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs remain delicious and appealing, whether they’re served fresh or enjoyed as leftovers.

FAQS

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for the meatballs?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as poultry may cook faster than beef.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time for a party or dinner?

Yes, you can prepare these Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs ahead of time to streamline your meal prep. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate the assembled meatballs until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights.

Can I use different types of cheese for stuffing the meatballs?

Absolutely! While mozzarella cheese creates that irresistible gooey center, you can get creative and experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese for a unique twist. Just make sure the cheese is cut into small cubes so it melts evenly inside the meatballs.

Can I freeze the baked meatballs for later use?

Yes, these Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs freeze beautifully, making them a convenient option for meal prep. Once baked and cooled, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they’re well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.

Conclusion:

With its irresistible combination of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and molten mozzarella cheese, these Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are guaranteed to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re serving them up for a family dinner or entertaining guests, these cheesy delights are sure to be a hit every time!