Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of beef and cheese with a rich marinara sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, but it also has a deliciously gooey surprise in each meatball. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, these meatballs can easily be customized to suit different tastes, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 440
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 650mg
Why Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe
This Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe is not only satisfying but also a wonderful source of protein. The fresh mozzarella inside adds a delicious creaminess, creating a flavorful contrast with the seasoned beef. Plus, the marinara sauce is packed with herbs and flavor, complementing the meatballs perfectly. It’s a versatile dish that can fit into various dietary needs and preferences, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.
How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe Step by Step
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 egg
1 small onion, diced finely
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp basil, dried
1/2 tsp oregano, dried
1/2 tsp salt
pepper, to taste
4 oz fresh mozzarella (cut into 1/2 inch cubes)
1-2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups marinara sauce
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, finely diced onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Cut the fresh mozzarella into approximately 1/2 inch cubes. Set aside. Using about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture per meatball, flatten the meat in your hand, place a mozzarella cube in the center, then cover the cheese completely with meat and roll into a ball. Repeat this process to make about 12 meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium to high heat. Add the meatballs and cook, browning one side, then carefully flip to brown the other side, ensuring a nice crust forms on all sides. Once browned, pour marinara sauce over the meatballs in the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the meatballs simmer for about 10 minutes. Flip the meatballs halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution and that the cheese inside melts properly. Serve the mozzarella stuffed meatballs hot, spooned with extra marinara sauce over your favorite pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe
These mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are best served over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta, creating a hearty meal. For a lighter option, pair them with zucchini noodles or a fresh side salad to brighten up the plate. You can also enjoy them as an appetizer, topped with toothpicks for an easy party bite.
How to Store Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe
Leftover mozzarella-stuffed meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them in a covered dish or warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Expert Tips for Cooking Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe
- Ensure the mozzarella cubes are fully enclosed by the meat mixture to prevent them from leaking out during cooking.
- For added flavor, incorporate some grated lemon zest into the meat mixture for a refreshing twist.
- If you enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the pan while browning the meatballs to ensure even cooking.
Delicious Variations of Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe
For a spicy version, add chopped jalapeños or crushed red peppers to the meat mixture. If you prefer a herbed flavor, mix in fresh basil or oregano. For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the ground beef with chopped mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat and use vegan mozzarella.
In conclusion, the Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe is a delightful way to bring comfort food to your table. Its flavor and ease of preparation make it a favorite for both busy weekdays and special gatherings. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll be enjoying savory, cheesy goodness in no time!
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, finely diced onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cut the fresh mozzarella into approximately 1/2 inch cubes. Set aside.
- Using about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture per meatball, flatten the meat in your hand, place a mozzarella cube in the center, then cover the cheese completely with meat and roll into a ball. Repeat this process to make about 12 meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium to high heat.
- Add the meatballs and cook, browning one side, then carefully flip to brown the other side, ensuring a nice crust forms on all sides.
- Once browned, pour marinara sauce over the meatballs in the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the meatballs simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Flip the meatballs halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution and that the cheese inside melts properly.
- Serve the mozzarella stuffed meatballs hot, spooned with extra marinara sauce over your favorite pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired.
