Moked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe!

Introduction

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs! These tender meatballs are filled with gooey smoked mozzarella cheese and baked to perfection, creating a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe offers a delicious twist on classic meatballs by adding a surprise element of melted smoked mozzarella cheese in the center. The combination of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

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 (such as Victoria’s) 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 smoked mozzarella cheese (1/2 inch cubes)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and position the rack in the lower 1/3 of the oven.
2. In a large bowl, mix together onion, parsley, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, egg, marinara sauce, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the ground beef to the mixture and combine well.
4. Shape the meat mixture into 16 meatballs.
5. Make a hole in the center of each meatball and place a cube of smoked mozzarella inside.
6. Reform the meatball to ensure the cheese is completely concealed.
7. Spoon 1/3 cup of marinara sauce into a baking dish, then place the meatballs inside.
8. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil.
9. Bake for 15 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.

How to Serve Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Serve these cheesy meatballs hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. They can be enjoyed as a main course with pasta, on a bed of spaghetti, or as a hearty appetizer.

How to Store Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet with a splash of marinara sauce to keep them moist.

Tips to Make Smoked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

• Use lean ground beef to prevent excess grease while baking.
• Ensure the cheese cubes are fully enclosed within the meat mixture to avoid leaking during cooking.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavor variations.

Variation

For a healthier alternative, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. You can also add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the meatball mixture for extra texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe.

2. Can I freeze the meatballs before baking? It’s best to bake the meatballs first, then freeze any leftovers for later consumption.

3. Can I use different types of cheese for stuffing? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a unique twist.