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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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!