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Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Close-up of three juicy mozzarella stuffed meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, garnished with fresh herbs.
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Juicy beef meatballs with a gooey mozzarella center, baked to perfection. Serve over pasta with marinara or as a party appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • Cooked pasta, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  3. Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion in your hand, place about 2 teaspoons of shredded mozzarella in the center, and carefully form the meat around the cheese to create a sealed ball. Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent leaking.
  4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs for 1-2 minutes per side until browned. This step helps them hold their shape and adds flavor.
  5. Transfer the skillet with the meatballs to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted and gooey.
  6. While the meatballs bake, gently warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
  7. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven. You can serve them directly from the skillet with the marinara sauce spooned over the top, alongside cooked pasta. Alternatively, you can serve them as appetizers with toothpicks.

Notes

  • For best results, use whole milk mozzarella for a creamier melt.
  • If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the meatballs in a regular skillet and then transfer them to the prepared baking sheet before baking.
  • Adjust the amount of mozzarella cheese to your preference, but be mindful not to overstuff, which can cause leaks.
  • These meatballs are also delicious served as a party appetizer with toothpicks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/mozzarella-stuffed-meatballs/