There’s something truly comforting about a dish that brings together the savory richness of seasoned meat, the aromatic notes of garlic and herbs, and the gooey surprise of melted mozzarella cheese. These Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are the epitome of hearty, home-cooked comfort food, offering a delightful twist on a traditional favorite. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, these meatballs are baked to perfection, ensuring a tender, juicy bite every time. The addition of grated onion and fresh parsley elevates the flavor profile, while a hint of crushed red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of kick. Imagine cutting into one of these meatballs to reveal a melty core of mozzarella—it’s a moment of pure culinary bliss.
Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re serving these meatballs over a bed of spaghetti, as a delicious appetizer, or nestled in a warm, crusty sub roll, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, making them a slightly healthier alternative without sacrificing any of the flavor. Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat? Let’s get started!
Servings: 4 (Makes 16 Meatballs)
Ingredients:
- 1 package of ground beef (1.5-2 lbs)
- 1 small onion, grated
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons marinara sauce plus 1/3 cup for baking
- 1 large egg
- 1 pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 16 cubed pieces of mozzarella cheese (1/2 inch cubes)
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the oven rack in the lower third of the oven.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated onion, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Italian bread crumbs, egg, marinara sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Add the ground beef to the mixture, using your hands to mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the meat mixture into 16 even-sized meatballs. Make a small indentation in the center of each meatball and insert a cube of mozzarella cheese. Carefully reform the meatball around the cheese to ensure it is fully enclosed.
- Spread 1/3 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed meatballs in the dish and drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted inside.
- Serve hot, with your favorite pasta, a fresh salad, or on their own as a satisfying appetizer.
Nutritional Information & Dietary Considerations: These mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are a great high-protein meal, providing essential nutrients to help keep you full and energized. The combination of beef and cheese makes this dish rich in protein and calcium, while the use of fresh parsley and garlic adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Since the meatballs are baked rather than fried, they are a healthier option with less fat content. However, those watching their sodium intake should be mindful of the cheese and seasoning used.
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