Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatball

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:

Step 1: Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Position the oven rack in the lower 1/3 of the oven.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine the onion, parsley, parm cheese, bread crumbs, egg, marinara, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Once mixed, add in the beef, mixing with your hands. Shape the meat mixture into 16 meatballs.

Step 2:

Make a hole in the center of each meatball and place a cube of mozzarella inside.

Reform the meatball so the cheese is completely concealed.

Spoon 1/3 cup marinara into the bottom of a baking dish.

Place the meatballs inside and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil.

Bake for 15 minutes until cooked through.

Notes:

Ingredient Choices: Use fresh flat-leaf parsley for its vibrant flavor and texture. Italian bread crumbs add extra flavor with their seasoned profile.

Seasoning: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your preference for spiciness. Be mindful of the salt content in both the Parmesan cheese and marinara sauce when adding additional salt to the meatball mixture.

Preparation Method: Grating the onion helps distribute its flavor evenly throughout the meat mixture. Mixing the ingredients by hand ensures they are thoroughly combined without overmixing, which can lead to tough meatballs.

Mozzarella Cubes: Ensure the mozzarella cubes are well-chilled before inserting them into the meatballs. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents excessive melting during baking.

Cooking Temperature and Time: Positioning the oven rack in the lower third of the oven helps ensure even cooking and browning. Baking the meatballs at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes ensures they are cooked through without becoming dry.

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Serving Suggestions: Serve the meatballs with additional marinara sauce for dipping or spooning over the top. They can be served as an appetizer, main course with pasta, or in a sandwich for a delicious meal.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 serving = 2 meatballs

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use lean ground beef instead of regular ground beef?

Yes, you can use lean ground beef if you prefer a lower-fat option.

Just keep in mind that leaner meats may result in slightly drier meatballs.

Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

While fresh parsley offers the best flavor and texture, you can substitute it with dried parsley if needed.

Use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?

Absolutely! These meatballs freeze well.

Once assembled, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container.

Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

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

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses for stuffing, such as cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese, based on your preferences.

How can I tell if the meatballs are fully cooked?

The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked.

You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I omit the red pepper flakes if I don’t like spicy food?

Absolutely! Feel free to omit the crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor profile.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef if you prefer.

Just be mindful that poultry may result in slightly different texture and flavor.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works well in this recipe if you’re short on time.

Choose your favorite brand for convenience.

Can I bake these meatballs in an air fryer instead of the oven?

While the oven is recommended for even cooking, you can try baking the meatballs in an air fryer.

Adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.

Can I serve these meatballs with pasta?

Absolutely! These meatballs are delicious served over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta, topped with additional marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese.