Discover the Perfect Recipe: Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Looking for a mouthwatering twist on traditional meatballs? Dive into the world of Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs—a delectable fusion of ground beef, Italian flavors, and gooey mozzarella cheese. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create these savory delights that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients for Culinary Excellence

To craft these succulent meatballs, gather the following 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)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Position the oven rack in the lower 1/3 of the oven.

Mixing the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine the grated onion, chopped parsley, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, egg, marinara sauce, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
2. Add the ground beef to the mixture. Using your hands, gently mix everything together until evenly distributed.

Stuff and Shape

1. Take a portion of the meat mixture and shape it into a ball (approximately 16 meatballs).
2. Make a hole in the center of each meatball and insert a cube of mozzarella cheese. Carefully seal the meatball around the cheese to ensure it’s completely enclosed.

Baking Perfection

1. Spoon 1/3 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Arrange the meatballs in the dish, ensuring they are not touching.
3. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the meatballs.
4. 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.

Serving Suggestions

Once out of the oven, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. These Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs pair perfectly with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.

Elevate Your Culinary Skills

With this detailed recipe, you’re equipped to dazzle your dinner guests with a memorable dish that’s bursting with flavor. Experiment with different variations, such as adding fresh herbs or adjusting the level of spice to suit your palate.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the kitchen and treat yourself to the delightful experience of making Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs. Your taste buds—and your dinner table—will thank you!